Mirian Gom 
Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe .
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Federal Government has ruled out an immediate electricity tariff increase, saying its priority is to improve electricity supply, achieve universal metering and ensure Nigerians pay only for the power they consume.
Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe made the announcement on Friday during a media roundtable in Lagos on the Federal Government’s plans to reset Nigeria’s power sector through market reforms, infrastructure investments and improved service delivery.
Tegbe dismissed speculation that the administration intends to raise electricity tariffs, stressing that improving supply and protecting consumers remain the government’s immediate focus.
“First, there is no policy by this administration to increase electricity tariffs beyond its current level. Our priority is not tariff increase in the immediate term. Our priority is service improvement, universal metering and ensuring Nigerians pay only for the electricity they actually consume,” the minister said.
He said the government would continue to explore additional measures to protect vulnerable electricity consumers while strengthening the financial sustainability of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry.
“Indeed, the Federal Government will continue to examine additional mechanisms for protecting vulnerable consumers whilst simultaneously improving the financial sustainability of the market,” Tegbe added.
According to the minister, the government’s strategy is anchored on implementing the Electricity Act, which allows states to establish electricity markets tailored to their economic realities while promoting competition and improving service delivery.
He also disclosed that the Federal Government is advancing a Power Sector Bond Initiative to settle outstanding obligations owed to electricity generation companies, gas suppliers and other participants in the power value chain.
Tegbe identified the Presidential Metering Initiative as a central pillar of the reforms, saying the programme aims to eliminate estimated billing through universal metering and improve transparency in electricity billing nationwide.
As part of the initiative, the government has launched the Power Force Programme, which will engage 5,000 Nigerian youths in electricity meter installation while providing technical training through the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN).
“Although much work remains, enhanced operational coordination, improved plant availability and better engagement across the value chain are beginning to produce measurable improvements,” he said.
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Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Otamere Gladness 