- 73.3% of Nigerians reject the electricity tariff hike and subsidy cuts, citing rising costs and poor supply.
- 60% say electricity bills are now “much more difficult” to afford, with many relying on generators.
- Critics urge the government to improve the power supply first, warning that current reforms worsen economic hardship.
According to a Businessday poll, most Nigerians oppose the recent electricity tariff hike and subsidy cut. Many households and businesses now struggle with a poor power supply and rising energy costs.
In April, the federal government raised tariffs for Band A customers by 300 per cent. This group includes consumers who should receive 20 hours of electricity daily. Government officials claim the hike will cut subsidies and save public funds.
However, Nigerians say the hike worsens their economic hardship. The power supply remains unreliable; many rely on generators and other costly alternatives.
The TalkExchange poll, conducted in April 2025, shows that 73.3 per cent of respondents rejected the tariff increase and subsidy reduction. Only 24.4 per cent supported the policy, while 2.2 per cent remained unsure.
The survey also highlights how Nigerians now find electricity harder to afford. Sixty per cent said they face “much more difficulty” paying their bills, and another 28.9 per cent reported “somewhat more difficulty.”
Only 8.9 per cent noticed no change. Just 2.2 per cent said electricity became easier to afford.
Businesses report higher costs due to the hike. Many now reduce operations or pass extra costs to customers, while others struggle to stay open.
Energy analysts warn that the policy, without service improvement, could harm economic growth. Citizens already deal with inflation and soaring fuel prices.
When asked about the economic necessity of the reforms, only 33.3 per cent agreed. A larger 57.8 per cent disagreed. About 8.9 per cent said they remained undecided.
Critics argue that the government implemented the hike at the wrong time. They believe the government should first improve the power supply before raising costs.
Consumer rights groups support this stance. They urge the government to prioritise reliable electricity and enforce accountability in the sector.
Government officials maintain that the reforms will attract investment and improve power supply. But most Nigerians remain sceptical.
Several Band A customers report receiving less than the promised 20 hours of daily power, casting doubt on the government’s classification system.
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) did not respond to the poll. Meanwhile, citizens continue to call for a review.
Analysts suggest a phased reform approach. They recommend matching tariffs with service quality and shielding low-income households from the impact.
For now, Nigerians feel the pinch. They pay more for electricity that fails to meet expectations. The government may save money, but citizens shoulder the rising cost.
The message is clear: Improve the power supply before increasing the price.