Groups Call for Enforcement of Service-Based Tariff Framework Amid Power Supply Concerns

Two advocacy organisations have called for stricter enforcement of Nigeria’s Service-Based Tariff (SBT) framework, citing concerns over electricity supply levels in relation to current tariff structures. In a joint statement issued in Abuja on April 13, SubNews Empowerment Foundation (SEF) and Profiles International Human Rights Advocate said electricity consumers in cities including Lagos and Abuja […]

Two advocacy organisations have called for stricter enforcement of Nigeria’s Service-Based Tariff (SBT) framework, citing concerns over electricity supply levels in relation to current tariff structures.

In a joint statement issued in Abuja on April 13, SubNews Empowerment Foundation (SEF) and Profiles International Human Rights Advocate said electricity consumers in cities including Lagos and Abuja have raised concerns about the consistency of supply under existing tariff bands.

The groups noted that the concerns relate particularly to Band A customers, who are classified under the SBT framework introduced by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission in November 2020.

“Consumers are paying for a premium service that is simply not being delivered. This is not just a service failure; it is a breach of trust and regulatory obligation,” the statement said.

Band A customers are expected to receive a minimum of 20 hours of electricity supply daily, averaged over one week, under the regulatory framework. The category attracts higher, cost-reflective tariffs following a 2024 review.

The organisations said that since October 2025, some consumers have reported variations between expected and actual hours of supply.

According to the statement, regulatory provisions outline measures to be taken where supply levels fall below required thresholds, including feeder reclassification, service communication, and customer compensation where applicable.

“The guidelines are clear. If DisCos fail to meet the 20-hour supply requirement, customers must be downgraded or compensated accordingly,” the groups said.

They also highlighted the need for adherence to established procedures in the classification and migration of customers across tariff bands, noting that regulatory approval and prior notification are required.

The organisations called on the Federal Ministry of Power and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission to continue strengthening oversight and ensuring compliance with existing regulations.

“We call on the Honourable Minister of Power and the Chairman, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to intervene decisively and ensure that regulatory standards are not only upheld but strictly enforced in the interest of fairness and accountability,” the statement said.

They further emphasised the importance of transparency, consumer engagement, and consistent service delivery across the electricity sector.

The statement was jointly signed by Daniel Nduka Okonkwo, founder of Profiles International Human Rights Advocate, and Tony Christian, Executive Director of SubNews Empowerment Foundation.