Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Chief Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, has said the Federal Government will not implement any immediate electricity tariff increase, assuring citizens that improving service delivery and expanding metering remain top priorities.
The clarification came as part of remarks made by the minister after commissioning a 3MW solar hybrid power project at Yakubu Gowon University in Abuja, where he addressed growing concerns over a possible electricity tariff increase Nigeria.
Also read: Tegbe commissions 3MW solar plant at UniAbuja
“There are no immediate plans to increase electricity tariffs. Our goal is to build a commercially viable power sector while protecting vulnerable consumers,” Chief Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe said.
The statement follows recent public debate triggered by discussions around subsidy reforms in the power sector, which some observers interpreted as a signal of imminent tariff adjustments.
The government, however, has sought to calm concerns by stressing that any future decisions will balance sustainability with consumer protection.
Officials say the administration’s current focus is on improving electricity supply, strengthening infrastructure and accelerating universal metering to ensure transparency in billing.
The minister noted that accurate metering would reduce disputes and ensure that consumers are billed strictly for what they use.
The announcement coincided with the unveiling of a solar-powered energy solution at Yakubu Gowon University, designed to provide stable electricity to about 58,726 students while reducing reliance on diesel generators.
The project forms part of the Energising Education Programme led by the Rural Electrification Agency.
Beyond generation capacity, the initiative includes 388 solar-powered streetlights to improve campus security and extend safe study hours, reflecting a broader push to enhance user experience in public institutions.
Chief Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe said the government remains committed to addressing structural and financial challenges in the power sector, while creating an investment-friendly environment capable of driving long-term growth.
The minister acknowledged that reforms to the electricity subsidy framework are under review but emphasised that such measures would be carefully implemented to avoid undue pressure on vulnerable households.
Energy analysts note that Nigeria’s electricity pricing has long been shaped by a delicate balance between cost recovery for operators and affordability for consumers.
Previous tariff reviews have often sparked public resistance, making the government’s cautious stance a significant signal to the market.
Also read: Tegbe commissions 3MW solar plant at UniAbuja
For now, the Federal Government maintains that any electricity tariff increase Nigeria is not on the immediate agenda, as attention remains firmly on improving reliability, boosting consumer confidence and delivering measurable progress across the power value chain.
Peculiar Adirika is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
