By Chiagoziem Abosi
Edited by Bababunmi Agbebi
If you’ve been enjoying relatively lower electricity tariffs because you’re not on Band A, you may need to prepare for changes in the future.
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transitioning Nigeria’s electricity market to cost-reflective tariffs across all customer categories, signaling that the current pricing system will eventually extend beyond Band A consumers.
The clarification came from the Special Adviser to the President on Power Infrastructure, Sadiq Wanka, who said the move is part of the government’s long-term strategy to fix the country’s struggling power sector, reduce subsidy payments and attract more private investment into electricity generation and distribution.
According to Wanka, while the transition began with Band A customers, who receive a minimum of 20 hours of electricity daily, extending cost-reflective pricing across all electricity bands remains government policy. He explained that the process will happen gradually rather than all at once.
Recall that in 2024, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) approved higher tariffs for Band A customers, who are expected to receive at least 20 hours of electricity every day.
The policy generated widespread debate, with many Nigerians questioning whether the improved supply justified the higher bills.
Government officials now say Band A was only the first phase of broader electricity market reforms aimed at achieving cost-reflective tariffs across all customer categories.
For many Nigerians, however, one question remains.
Will higher tariffs come with better electricity?
That may ultimately determine how residents and businesses judge the success of the reforms.
As the government continues to roll out its electricity market reforms, consumers will be watching closely, hoping that higher bills are matched by a more reliable power supply.
Do you think Nigerians should pay more for electricity if it guarantees better service? Share your thoughts in the comments.
