Power Minister Promises Lower Electricity Costs as Generation and Distribution Improve
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has reassured Nigerians that electricity costs may drop in the coming months, as the government ramps up efforts to increase power generation and distribution across the country.
During a meeting with the Executive Secretary of the National Lottery Trust Fund, Mr. Tosin Adeyanju, in Abuja, the minister emphasized that electricity remains more affordable than relying on generators powered by petrol or diesel, especially given current fuel prices.
Adelabu also highlighted that electricity tariffs in Nigeria are still lower than in other African countries like Togo, Mali, and Niger. However, the minister acknowledged that the low income levels in Nigeria make electricity costs seem higher for consumers.
“There’s no doubt that electricity in Nigeria is cheaper than in many neighboring countries, but we understand that the low average income makes it feel expensive for the average Nigerian,” Adelabu said.
Nigerians have raised concerns this year about rising electricity bills following tariff hikes by the distribution companies. Band A customers, for example, are guaranteed at least 20 hours of power daily but pay N209.5 per kilowatt-hour, which has led to increased complaints from consumers and manufacturers.
Addressing these concerns, Adelabu assured that efforts to boost electricity generation and distribution will result in reduced costs for Nigerians. He noted the ongoing reforms aimed at improving efficiency and affordability in the power sector.
In response, Mr. Adeyanju praised the minister for his remarkable achievements in the power sector, noting that Nigeria has seen noticeable improvements in electricity supply since Adelabu assumed office. He added that many citizens who had considered switching to solar due to unreliable power supply now have renewed confidence in the national grid.
Adeyanju also sought the ministry’s collaboration in training rural youth to assemble one-kilowatt solar energy systems, a project aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to combat unemployment and youth restiveness.
“Our goal is to empower young people in rural areas by training them in solar energy assembly, creating jobs for those who have acquired vocational skills like hairdressing, welding, and vulcanizing,” Adeyanju said.
Minister Adelabu expressed his willingness to partner with the Trust Fund on this initiative, stressing that the government is committed to providing electricity to underserved rural communities, particularly through renewable energy projects led by the Rural Electrification Agency.
He emphasized the need for long-term energy solutions amid global challenges such as rising gas prices and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Adelabu concluded by urging Nigerians to remain patient, as the government’s efforts will bring lasting improvements to the country’s energy sector.
