Nigerian universities are currently in turmoil due to the escalating costs of electricity across the country. Several institutions have been disconnected from the national grid due to substantial unpaid bills owed to DISCOs, while others still connected are struggling with mounting debts amounting to millions of naira.
The Federal Government, through the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), recently mandated an immediate increase in electricity tariffs starting from April 3rd. This directive aims to ensure that electricity investors can cover their operational expenses, with Band A customers expected to receive an average of 20 hours of electricity supply daily, despite widespread complaints of inconsistent supply.
The College of Medicine, University of Lagos, for instance, has been severely affected by this tariff revision, resulting in a staggering bill of N252,631,305.52 inclusive of VAT for June 2024. Despite efforts to negotiate and make substantial payments, the institution was disconnected by Eko Electric Distribution Company (EKEDC) on June 25th, 2024.
Similarly, Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology in Wudil, Kano State, faced a similar fate when Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) disconnected their power supply due to an outstanding bill exceeding N248 million. This has disrupted academic activities at the university.
In another instance, the University of Jos was disconnected by Jos Electricity Distribution Company over unpaid debts totaling N126 million, while the University of Benin experienced a disconnection owing to an unpaid electricity bill of over N300 million.
Prof. Lilian Salami, the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, and Chairperson of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, expressed deep concern over the situation, highlighting that UNIBEN’s monthly electricity bill skyrocketed from N80 million to N280 million following the tariff adjustment by NERC.
These developments underscore the urgent need for sustainable solutions to mitigate the financial burden on Nigerian universities amid the escalating energy costs and ensure uninterrupted academic activities.
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