Electricity in Nigeria - Band A problems

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The price per kWh for Band A is quite high compared to other bands. There was a jump from lower tariffs to something like ₦200-₦225/kWh depending on state or Disco (Distribution Company). 

With that kind of per-unit cost, usage adds up fast. If you have heavy loads (ACs, fridge, heaters, etc.) or inefficient appliances, the monthly cost will skyrocket.






Band A Electricity in Nigeria: The Problems Behind a ₦200k Bill

Electricity is one of the most pressing issues in Nigeria, and the recent changes in the power sector have brought Band A customers into the spotlight.

What is Band A?

Band A refers to customers who are supposed to get 20+ hours of power supply daily. Because of this, their electricity tariff is higher than other bands (B, C, D, and E). In theory, Band A users should enjoy near-constant light, making the higher bill somewhat justifiable.

The Reality

The problem, however, is that many Band A customers do not actually get the promised 20+ hours of electricity. Power supply is still erratic in many areas. Despite this, the bills continue to climb. Some households and small businesses are now reporting monthly bills of up to ₦200,000, even when supply doesn’t match what is being paid for.

Why the Huge Bills?

Tariff Hike: The new Band A tariff is several times higher than other bands.

Estimated Billing: Many customers without prepaid meters are billed far beyond their actual usage.

Poor Supply: Blackouts and load shedding still affect Band A areas, but billing does not reflect these outages.


The Impact

On Families: ₦200k monthly electricity bills are unsustainable for middle-class households.

On Businesses: Shops, offices, and small factories face rising costs, often passing these on to customers.

On Trust: Nigerians are losing confidence in the electricity distribution companies (DisCos) because of the gap between promise and reality.


The Way Forward

Mass Metering: Every customer needs a prepaid meter to ensure fair billing.

Transparency: DisCos must provide clear data on actual power supply versus what is billed.

Regulation: Stronger oversight is needed to make sure Band A truly means better service.


Conclusion

Electricity remains a lifeline for development in Nigeria. Until Band A customers consistently receive the power they are paying so heavily for, ₦200k bills will remain not just shocking but unjust.






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