Consumers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are willing to pay high tariffs for improved and sustainable electricity. This assertion was made by residents of Kuje, Kubwa, Gwagwalada, Lugbe, and Nyanyan in separate interviews. They expressed frustration with the current epileptic power supply, which often leaves them without electricity for several hours a day.
Monday Oriafo, a civil servant, noted that a steady power supply would make him willing to pay for electricity. He argued that having electricity for less than four hours a day is not encouraging. Oriafo insisted that a constant power supply would make him willing to pay for it.
Vivian Udoh, a trader, echoed similar sentiments. She stated that all electricity consumers would be willing to pay for a regular and stable power supply. Udoh noted that improved power supply would make her willing to pay any amount.
The residents' concerns were also shared by Amah Okorie, a fashion designer. She highlighted that her area, Kubwa, often experiences power outages, which negatively impacts her business. Okorie appealed to the government to ensure a constant power supply, adding that she would be willing to pay any amount to ensure it.
The residents' willingness to pay high tariffs for improved power supply has been echoed by Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu. He recently assured Nigerians that power supply would improve in the next two weeks.
The willingness of Abuja residents to pay high tariffs for electricity is a clear indication that they are fed up with the current epileptic power supply. The Power Minister's assurances that power supply will improve in the next two weeks are welcome, but what concrete actions will be taken to address the problem? The residents' willingness to pay for electricity is a vote of confidence in the government's ability to deliver on its promises. However, the government must take concrete steps to ensure that the power supply is regular and stable. The current situation where residents are willing to pay high tariffs for electricity is a reflection of the government's failure to provide a reliable power supply. The residents expect the government to put the right infrastructure in place and make electricity available to all Nigerians.
