Credit: Hennie Stander
Electricity is an essential component of modern life. It powers our homes, fuels our economy, and keeps us connected. However, in Nigeria, access to electricity is not a reality for many households. According to the Nigeria Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) conducted in 2021, 36.4% of households in Nigeria do not have access to electricity. The figure is even higher in rural areas, where almost 60% of households are without electricity.
The data reveals a significant disparity in access to electricity across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones.
The North East region has the highest percentage of households without electricity at 68.0%, followed by the North West region at 56.9%. The North Central region has the third-highest percentage at 43.4%. On the other hand, the South East region has the lowest percentage of households without electricity at 18.7%, followed by the South South region at 26.6%, and the South West region at 27.7%.
States with the highest percentage of households without access to electricity include Jigawa (84.3%), Taraba (82%), Bauchi (79.5%), and Yobe (76.3%). On the other hand, Lagos state has the lowest percentage of households without electricity at just 0.6%, followed by Anambra (7.7%), Edo (7.2%), and Abia (8.5%).
The disparities in access to electricity across the states reflect the country's uneven development and highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to bridge the gap. To improve access to electricity, the government and private sector need to prioritize investment in the energy sector, particularly in states with the lowest access to electricity.
Implications of Lack of Access to Electricity
The lack of access to electricity has far-reaching consequences on the lives of people, especially those in rural areas. In the absence of electricity, households are forced to rely on traditional sources of energy such as kerosene lamps, candles, and firewood for cooking and lighting. These sources of energy are not only expensive but also pose health risks due to the fumes they emit.
The lack of access to electricity also affects economic growth. Without electricity, businesses cannot operate efficiently, limiting their productivity and profitability. This, in turn, hinders economic growth and development, making it difficult for the country to achieve its potential.
Improving Access to Electricity
Improving access to electricity in Nigeria is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. One approach is to increase investment in the energy sector to improve the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. This can be achieved through public-private partnerships, encouraging foreign investment, and attracting private sector investment.
Another approach is to promote the use of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro power. This will not only increase access to electricity but also reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels, which are a major contributor to climate change.
Improving access to electricity in Nigeria is crucial to achieving sustainable economic growth and development. By investing in the energy sector and promoting the use of renewable energy sources, Nigeria can improve the lives of its citizens and unlock its potential as a major player in the global economy.