The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, revealed during an appearance on Radio Nigeria Kaduna’s Hausa program “Hannu Da Yawa” on Saturday that despite recent increases in electricity tariffs, approximately 85% of Nigerians still benefit from electricity subsidies across the country. He also mentioned that the tariff increase was necessary, allowing the government to save over N1 trillion from the fresh tariff hike.
These statements were made in response to complaints from callers on the program about the recent increase in electricity tariffs announced for Band A customers by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission. Idris noted that 85% of the Nigerian population falls under different categories outside the Band A regime and continues to benefit from the subsidy.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant (Media), Rabiu Ibrahim, Idris emphasized that approximately 40% of Nigerians benefit from the disproportionate amount of electricity subsidy, while about 15% of the electricity consumer population, including affluent individuals and industrial clusters, enjoy around 20 hours of electricity.
The Minister stated that the over N1 trillion saved from the withdrawal of electricity subsidy would be reinvested in improving power supply and providing social services for the country.
Furthermore, Idris highlighted that the new Electricity Act, signed by President Tinubu, has strengthened the governance structure of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission and empowered the agency to impose severe sanctions on electricity distribution companies for billing and supply infractions.
