By Obas Esiedesa, Abuja

The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has announced that ongoing improvements in power generation and distribution across Nigeria could lead to a reduction in electricity tariffs.

This development was revealed in a statement released by his Special Adviser on Strategic Communication and Media, Mr. Bolaji Tunji, following a meeting with the Executive Secretary of the National Lottery Trust Fund, Mr. Tosin Adeyanju.

Currently, customers in Band-A pay ₦206.5 per kWh after the Federal Government removed subsidies for this category in exchange for a guaranteed minimum of 20 hours of power supply daily. The Minister noted that 40% of electricity consumers now receive this level of power supply, with generation averaging 5,500MW.

Chief Adelabu emphasized that “electricity prices in Nigeria are still among the lowest compared to other African nations such as Togo, Mali, and Niger Republic.” However, he acknowledged that the relatively low income levels in Nigeria make the cost of electricity seem high to consumers.

The Minister also pointed out that using electricity is still far cheaper than running generators on petrol or diesel, considering the current prices of those commodities. He expressed optimism about a potential reduction in tariffs as power generation and distribution continue to improve.

In his remarks, the National Lottery Trust Fund boss, Tosin Adeyanju, commended the Minister for his excellent performance since assuming office, particularly in restoring public confidence in the power sector. Adeyanju said, “Since 1999, we have not witnessed the level of improvement in electricity supply that we have today. Many people had begun to rely on solar energy due to the poor supply. But your efforts have restored confidence in the sector.”

Adeyanju also discussed the agency’s plans to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu by training youths, particularly in rural areas, to assemble one kilowatt of solar energy. “We have approached your ministry for partnership in training rural youths to help reduce unemployment and create jobs, particularly for those with vocational skills like hairdressing, vulcanizing, and welding,” he explained.

This initiative, Adeyanju noted, aims to address youth restiveness and unemployment across the country, aligning with President Tinubu’s vision for rural development and job creation.