Band A Woes: Varsities Groan Over High Tariffs; Students Lament Blackouts

Universities in Nigeria are grappling with exorbitant electricity tariffs imposed by distribution companies (DISCOs), which could collectively cost the top 10 universities over N75 billion in 2024 alone. These institutions, with a combined budget of N247.6 billion, are facing power rationing and disconnections due to unpaid bills. The issue has been exacerbated by their categorization into higher tariff bands without corresponding improvements in electricity supply. For instance, the University of Lagos saw its monthly electricity bill surge from N180 million to N300 million, while the Federal University of Technology, Akure, faces a bill increase from N20 million to N60 million despite inadequate power supply. Similar challenges are reported across universities nationwide, impacting their operations and leading to unrest among students.