Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has assured citizens of a potential reduction in electricity costs in the coming months.
During a courtesy visit from the National Lottery Trust Fund’s Executive Secretary, Tosin Adeyanju, at the Ministry’s Abuja headquarters on Thursday, October 3, Adelabu emphasized that electricity costs in Nigeria are significantly lower than relying on generators powered by petrol or diesel, considering current fuel prices.
The Minister noted that Nigeria’s electricity prices are the cheapest compared to other African countries, including Togo, Mali, and Niger Republic.
However, he acknowledged that the country’s low income level makes the cost seem high to consumers.
Adeyanju commended Adelabu for his outstanding performance, competence, and capacity since assuming office. “Since 1999, we haven’t witnessed the improvement in electricity supply that we have today. You have restored people’s confidence in the sector,” Adeyanju said.
The Lottery boss informed Adelabu of the agency’s initiative to train rural youths in assembling solar energy systems as part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Adelabu expressed the Ministry’s readiness to collaborate with the Trust Fund, leveraging its renewable power project and agencies like the Rural Electricity Agency.
“We will be happy to work and partner with you on this project. We have agencies driving this renewable power project using solar, wind, and other alternative sources of power supply that the grid cannot reach.”
The Minister emphasized the global importance of food and energy security, particularly in rural areas, and President Tinubu’s commitment to transforming Nigeria.
“If Nigerians are patient, they will realize that the government means well for them.”
Currently, Nigerians are grappling with high electricity costs following the increase in band tariffs by Distribution Companies.
Band A customers receive at least 20 hours of daily electricity supply but pay N209.5 per kilowatt-hour, sparking complaints from citizens and manufacturers.
