The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has indicated that it is considering a further upward review of electricity tariffs, a move aimed at improving service delivery across the country’s power sector.
The commission made the disclosure in a post shared on its official X account on Monday, noting that the review is part of ongoing efforts to enhance electricity supply and customer experience.
NERC defends possible tariff adjustment
According to the statement, the proposed adjustment is intended to improve quality of service while ensuring consumers receive more reliable electricity supply.
“You deserve satisfaction and accurate information on the increase. There is no issue of hidden pricing or cutting off your power arbitrarily,” NERC stated.
The regulator added that the objective is to bring electricity tariffs closer to actual cost-reflective levels while maintaining consumer protection mechanisms.
“We are bringing the electricity tariff closer to you to improve your quality of life, and we assure you of continued protection of your rights every day,” the commission said.
Push for cost-reflective tariffs amid system challenges
NERC explained that the broader goal is to ensure access to affordable and reliable electricity while addressing long-standing inefficiencies in the sector.
It also highlighted concerns around the current payment structure, describing it as a “one-size-fits-all system” that does not fully reflect consumption patterns or service realities.
The commission further stated its commitment to resolving customer complaints and safeguarding consumer rights as reforms continue.
Background of previous tariff hikes
The latest development comes after a major electricity tariff increase in April 2024, when Band A customers saw rates rise from about ₦68 per kWh to ₦225 per kWh.
This affected consumers receiving at least 20 hours of electricity supply daily, representing roughly 15 per cent of users.
The rate was later adjusted to ₦206.80 per kWh in May 2024, before some Distribution Companies (DisCos) increased it again to ₦209.50 per kWh in July 2024.
Despite these adjustments, many consumers have continued to complain that they are not receiving power supply that matches the tariff charged.
Labour raises concerns over cost of living
The proposed tariff review comes at a time of growing economic pressure on households, with rising inflation affecting food, transport, and housing costs.
The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, recently warned that even high-income earners could struggle under current economic conditions if the naira continues to lose value.
He stressed that workers are more concerned about purchasing power than nominal salary figures.
“Even if Nigerian workers earn ₦1 million, it will not be meaningful if the naira has no value,” Ajaero said.
As discussions around electricity pricing continue, stakeholders say the outcome could further shape the cost of living landscape in Nigeria in the coming months.