Nigerian universities are struggling with excessive electricity tariffs imposed by electricity distribution companies (DISCOs). As highlighted in a recent Punch Newspaper report, the ten universities with the highest budgets this year may spend over N75 billion on electricity alone.
These universities have a combined budget of N247.6 billion for 2024, but the rising cost of electricity threatens to consume a significant portion of their funds.
The ten public universities with the highest budgets for 2024 include:
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka: N36.6bn
- University of Calabar: N29.5bn
- Ahmadu Bello University: N29.2bn
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka: N26.3bn
- University of Benin: N24.2bn
- University of Ibadan: N23.4bn
- University of Maiduguri: N22.3bn
- University of Port Harcourt: N19.6bn
- University of Lagos: N19.4bn
- Obafemi Awolowo University: N17.1bn
These institutions are struggling to cope with high electricity tariffs, having been categorized into “Band A” without receiving a commensurate provision of power. For instance, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) saw its monthly electricity bill surge from N180 million to N300 million. Similarly, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) faces a monthly bill of N300 million.
The lack of electricity has forced universities to ration power or rely on generators. UNIBEN’s health centre, for example, is without power from 10 p.m. when the generators are switched off, leaving staff to use torchlights. Strategic offices like the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) secretariat depend on generators.
Government and Stakeholder Responses
The Head of Branding and Corporate Communications at BEDC, Mrs Evelyn Gbiwen, attributed the tariff increase to a directive from the National Electricity Regulation Commission (NERC), stating that disconnection is inevitable for unpaid bills.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu, emphasized that DISCOs would need about N6 trillion in annual revenue to ensure a steady power supply in Nigeria, a significant leap from the current N1 trillion.
Nigerian universities’ terrible situation under the burden of soaring electricity costs is a clear cry for help. The escalating tariffs imposed by DISCOs are not just financial burdens; they are hindering the very functioning of these institutions.
As students and staff struggle with limited power supply, the quality of education and research is at risk. Immediate intervention is needed to shield educational institutions from these financial pressures.
The government and stakeholders must recognize that the future of Nigeria’s higher education and development hinges on providing stable and affordable power to its universities. This is not just an operational issue; it’s ensuring that the nation’s brightest minds have the resources to learn, innovate, and contribute to Nigeria’s growth.