Power expert Chinedu Bosah has expressed skepticism about the proposed transfer of regulatory authority from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to Lagos State.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Bosah, who serves as the National Coordinator for the Coalition for Affordable and Regular Electricity (CARE), contended that this shift would not effectively tackle the power challenges facing Lagos. He criticized the Lagos State Electricity Law of 2024 for overlooking critical issues related to power generation, transmission, and distribution.
“Changing regulators will not address these entrenched problems,” Bosah remarked. “Unless we address the underlying inefficiencies, this transition will not enhance Lagos’ electricity supply.”
He emphasized that Nigeria’s electricity crisis stems from insufficient investment. Bosah noted that while the country’s installed capacity stands at 14,000 megawatts (MW), actual generation hovers around only 5,000 MW.
“The shortfall is attributed to high gas prices, inadequate gas supply infrastructure, and weak transmission and distribution networks,” Bosah stated.
He pointed out that rising electricity tariffs pose another significant challenge, as many Nigerians find it difficult to afford these increases, complicating efforts to enhance the sector.
Bosah also expressed concern over the heavy dependence on private investment, claiming it has not yielded positive results. He referenced the 11-year history of privatization, which he argued has not resulted in any meaningful improvements. Despite multiple government bailouts, the sector continues to face issues with poor service delivery and insufficient infrastructure.
“Electricity requires substantial capital,” Bosah remarked. “Relying solely on private investment to resolve the issue is unrealistic, as the past decade has demonstrated.”
He further criticized the existing tariff system, asserting that it benefits wealthier individuals while overlooking the energy needs of the wider population.
He stated that the current policies prioritize profits over ensuring reliable electricity access for all.
“The existing tariff system favors the middle and upper classes, leaving ordinary Nigerians to struggle,” Bosah noted.
He emphasized that developed nations have advanced by making substantial investments in public infrastructure, rather than merely regulating the industry. Bosah contended that without similar large-scale public investment, Nigeria will not achieve significant improvements in power generation, transmission, or distribution.
“Public investment is crucial for addressing Nigeria’s electricity crisis. Regulatory changes alone will not bring about genuine reforms,” Bosah insisted.
He called on both Lagos State and the federal government to reconsider their privatization strategies and to prioritize public funding to enhance the electricity sector. Bosah warned that without this approach, both Lagos and Nigeria would only experience superficial improvements in power supply.
In summary, Bosah reiterated that addressing Nigeria’s electricity issues requires a fundamental shift in strategy.
