By SpringNewsNG Media Limited – July 7, 2025

Nigeria’s electricity distribution companies (DisCos) have posted their highest-ever revenue since the power sector was privatised in 2013—despite widespread complaints over poor electricity supply and rising tariffs across the country.

According to industry data reviewed by SpringNewsNG, the DisCos collectively generated record revenues in the first half of 2025, driven largely by increased tariffs and aggressive metering policies. This marks the highest income level the sector has achieved in over a decade of private ownership.

However, this revenue growth stands in stark contrast to the deteriorating quality of service experienced by consumers nationwide. Extended blackouts, frequent load shedding, and unreliable supply continue to plague both urban and rural areas.

Analysts and civil society groups have criticised the development, pointing out that revenue should reflect improved service delivery—not worsening conditions.

“It’s deeply concerning that DisCos are earning more while Nigerians are getting less power,” said energy analyst Chika Umeh. “This reflects a broken pricing and regulatory structure that rewards inefficiency.”

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has acknowledged service issues and is reportedly investigating supply irregularities and performance shortfalls among some operators. However, no sanctions have been announced as of July 7.

Meanwhile, consumers continue to bear the burden of high tariffs, which were adjusted earlier this year under the Multi-Year Tariff Order (MYTO), despite power generation hovering below 4,000MW for several weeks.

As Nigerians endure higher electricity bills without commensurate service, the controversy surrounding the privatisation of the power sector has been reignited—raising questions about the long-term sustainability and fairness of the current distribution model.

More updates are expected as NERC finalizes its mid-year performance review of DisCos nationwide.