Heartbreaking Stories of Small Business Owners Struggling with Unreliable Power Supply

Small businesses in Nigeria are facing a dire situation as the high cost of operation is forcing many to shut down, leaving employees without jobs and families struggling to make ends meet. From manufacturing plants to bakeries to hotels, entrepreneurs are grappling with the challenges of sourcing alternative electricity, high diesel prices, and new taxes every month.

Damian Nsikak, a small enterprise owner, highlighted the struggles he faces in running his bottle and sachet water factory in Lagos. He emphasized the impact of the high cost of diesel generators on his operation costs, warning that the price of sachet water may soon become unaffordable for the masses.

Cyprian Obilor, who runs a hotel, restaurant, and laundry factory in Abuja, echoed similar sentiments, noting the exorbitant amount spent on diesel every day to keep his business running. He lamented the lack of stable electricity supply, which results in increased expenses and decreased profit margins.

The recent increase in electricity tariffs by the government has further exacerbated the situation for small businesses, with many manufacturers facing the prospect of closure due to the additional financial burden. Abel Ugbede, a member of NACCIMA, expressed concerns about the impact of the tariff hike on the productive sector of the economy, warning of a downturn in business operations.

As businesses struggle to stay afloat amidst rising costs and economic challenges, the future looks uncertain for many entrepreneurs in Nigeria. With inflation on the rise and job cuts looming, small businesses are facing an uphill battle to survive in an increasingly hostile business environment.