In-Depth Analysis: Tinubu’s Campaign Promise on Electricity and the Reality of Power Sector Reform
By Rimawaglobalnews Analysis Desk
A viral video circulating on social media has once again brought attention to a campaign statement made by Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during the build-up to the 2023 general elections.
In the video, Tinubu was seen addressing thousands of supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC), where he reportedly declared:
“Whichever means necessary, you must have electricity and you will not pay. A promise is a promise. If I don’t keep it and I come back for a second term, don’t vote for me.”
The clip has resurfaced at a time when electricity supply remains a major national concern, prompting renewed public debate about campaign promises, governance realities, and the structural challenges facing Nigeria’s power sector.
Context of the Statement
Political analysts say campaign rhetoric is often used to emphasize commitment to solving long-standing national challenges. In Nigeria, electricity supply has been one of the most persistent socio-economic issues, affecting industrial growth, small businesses, and household welfare.
Tinubu’s remark during the campaign was interpreted by supporters as a symbolic pledge to aggressively reform the power sector rather than a literal promise of completely free electricity.
Observers note that political messaging during rallies is often designed to inspire confidence and mobilize voters rather than outline detailed policy mechanisms.
The Structural Reality of Nigeria’s Power Sector
Nigeria’s electricity sector has undergone several reforms since the privatization of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) in 2013. The sector currently operates through three main segments:
Generation Companies (GenCos) – responsible for electricity generation
Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) – responsible for power transmission
Distribution Companies (DisCos) – responsible for delivering electricity to consumers
Despite these reforms, the sector continues to face significant challenges, including:
Inadequate generation capacity
Weak transmission infrastructure
Liquidity problems within the electricity market
Metering gaps and tariff controversies
Gas supply constraints for power plants
Experts argue that electricity cannot realistically be provided completely free because the sector requires substantial financial investment to operate sustainably.
Government’s Current Power Sector Strategy
Since assuming office in May 2023, the Tinubu administration has initiated several policies aimed at improving electricity supply. Among them are:
Electricity Act 2023 Implementation – allowing states to generate and distribute electricity independently.
Power Sector Investments – efforts to attract private investment into generation and distribution.
Transmission Infrastructure Expansion – projects aimed at strengthening the national grid.
Renewable Energy Initiatives – promotion of solar and alternative energy solutions.
Energy policy experts argue that these measures are intended to increase electricity availability, though not necessarily eliminate electricity tariffs.
Public Reaction to the Viral Video
The resurfaced campaign clip has generated mixed reactions among Nigerians:
Critics say it reflects unrealistic political promises that often accompany election campaigns.
Supporters argue the statement was meant to highlight the urgency of solving the power crisis rather than introduce free electricity.
Policy analysts emphasize the importance of evaluating leaders based on long-term structural reforms rather than isolated campaign soundbites.
Political Implications Ahead of 2027
With Nigeria’s next presidential election scheduled for January 16, 2027, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), campaign promises made during the 2023 elections are likely to continue shaping political debates.
Electricity supply, alongside economic stability and security, remains one of the key issues that could influence voter decisions in the next electoral cycle.
The viral video of Tinubu’s campaign statement highlights a broader issue in Nigerian politics — the tension between campaign rhetoric and the complex realities of governance.
While the promise of improved electricity resonates strongly with citizens frustrated by years of unreliable power supply, the real challenge lies in sustainable reforms, infrastructure development, and financial stability within the power sector.
For many Nigerians, the central question remains not whether electricity will be free, but whether it will become stable, reliable, and accessible across the country.
