The Nigerian government has slashed electricity subsidies by 35%, a move it says is necessary for power sector reform but one that is drawing widespread criticism from citizens grappling with economic hardship.

The cut follows last year’s tariff hikes targeting high-consumption users and is part of broader efforts to reduce government spending on energy subsidies. According to officials, the decision has already saved the country millions of dollars funds they argue are better redirected toward infrastructure and power sector investment.

However, the announcement has triggered growing public frustration. Many Nigerians argue that the reduction has led to higher electricity bills, compounding the burden on households and small businesses already hit hard by rising inflation, stagnant wages, and a sluggish economy.

“It’s becoming unbearable,” said one Lagos resident. “We’re paying more for less power, while everything else is getting more expensive.”

Critics have also questioned the timing of the move, pointing to Nigeria’s persistent electricity supply issues, frequent blackouts, and unreliable service. They argue that until the power grid is stabilized and generation capacity improves, passing costs onto consumers is both unfair and unsustainable.

Government officials, however, insist the cut is part of a long-term plan to attract investment into the energy sector by making it more market-driven. “We cannot continue to subsidize inefficiency,” a spokesperson for the Ministry of Power said. “These reforms are necessary to build a stronger, more resilient power system.”

As the debate intensifies, economists warn that while subsidy removal may be fiscally prudent, without a corresponding improvement in service delivery, public trust in the reform process could further erode.

With no immediate relief in sight, the subsidy cut is shaping up to be a flashpoint in Nigeria’s broader struggle to balance fiscal responsibility with social equity.