Contrary to reports suggesting an impending electricity tariff hike from January 1, 2024, power distribution companies (Discos) have refuted such claims, asserting that there is no directive from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) for such an increase.
The alleged plan to increase electricity tariffs had been reported but was not confirmed by NERC or the Federal Ministry of Power.
When contacted by The PUNCH to verify the reports, three Discos, along with officials from NERC, dismissed the claims.
Adekole Elijah, the Head of Corporate Communications at Jos Electricity Distribution Company, stated, “We have not received any directive or order on that. I have also heard about the rumour, but it has not been confirmed. So at this moment, I am not aware of any such moves to hike electricity tariffs.”
Emeka Ezeh, the Head of Communications at Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, emphasized that without NERC’s approval, any contemplation of tariff increase would not materialize.
As per an official from NERC, there is no order issued for a tariff hike, and minor reviews of tariffs are typically conducted every six months.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, had previously mentioned in November 2023 that President Bola Tinubu halted the implementation of an electricity tariff hike, insisting on subsidizing power consumption nationwide. Adelabu noted that the government still subsidizes power, affecting liquidity and investments in the sector.
It was reported on December 18, 2023, that the Federal Government had spent N375.8 billion on electricity subsidy between January and September 2023.
Ada Peter
