Amid the current economic challenges, electricity consumers in Abuja’s Band A—designated for customers receiving at least 20 hours of power daily at a rate of N209.5 per kilowatt-hour—are appealing for a downward review of the high tariff. Many residents in the Federal Capital Territory, including those in Lugbe, Area 10, and the Apo Resettlement Area, expressed concern over the rising cost of electricity, which they say is becoming unmanageable under current conditions.
While Band A provides nearly uninterrupted power, consumers say the tariff is absorbing a significant portion of their income, leaving many struggling to meet expenses.
Mrs. Mary Adeyemi, a Lugbe resident, shared, “This Band A tariff is consuming much of my income. I appeal to the government to reconsider and review it downwards.”
Mr. Ugochukwu Okafor, a vulcaniser in Lugbe, noted that his income does not stretch far enough to cover the high costs, adding, “The Band A tariff is excessive given the economic hardship. It’s impacting both personal and business finances.”
In Apo Resettlement, fashion designer Mrs. Anita Adaje expressed similar frustrations, noting that her reliance on electricity for sewing makes it difficult to turn a profit. “Customers are hesitant to pay higher rates, and I’m finding it hard to sustain my business. A tariff review is necessary,” she emphasized.
For printing business owners in Area 10, the situation is particularly challenging. Mr. Festus Ogunbor shared that he spends over N30,000 daily just to power his machines, a cost that’s impacting his ability to take on new work. “The high electricity tariff has reduced our profitability and increased the cost of living. We need government intervention,” he urged.
Similarly, Mr. Chidi Okeke, another printing operator, stated that sustaining operations with the current tariffs is a struggle, adding, “The government needs to lower electricity costs to support business growth and inspire entrepreneurship in Nigeria.”
The collective sentiment from FCT’s Band A electricity consumers underscores a need for relief through tariff reduction, especially to support small businesses and households impacted by the country’s economic conditions.
