New Electricity Tarrif Will Escalate Insecurity, Kill Small-scale Industries – Union
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The Nigerian Association of Small-scale Industries, Kano State chapter, says the implementation of the new electricity tarrif will kill the small-scale industrial sector as well as escalate insecurity in the country.
“The new tariff plan will in essence kill the small-scale industrial sector and wreak havoc in the society including insecurity which is already a huge challenge across the country,” the Chairman of the Association, Aminu Ibrahim Kurawa, said.
Kurawa sounded the warning while addressing a news conference at the NUJ press centre, Kano, on Thursday.
He said the sudden increase in electricity prices had placed an unbearable burden on small-scale industrialists whom are already grappling with numerous challenges such as high production costs, limited access to credit facilities and stiff competition both locally and internationally.
He said the new tariff, therefore,poses a significant threat to the survival and growth of small-scale industries across the country,as many of the union’s members are already operating on thin profit margins.
“And any additional increase in operating costs, such as electricity tariffs, directly impacts our ability to remain competitive in the market with our international counterparts who are already in our local market,”he said.
The chairman, therefore,appealed to the relevant authorities to reconsider the new electricity tariff and engage in meaningful consultations with stakeholders from the small-scale industrial sector.
“It is imperative that any decision regarding electricity tariffs takes into account the unique challenges faced by small-scale industrialists and seeks to support rather than hinder their growth and development.
“We urge all stakeholders, including government agencies, regulatory bodies, and policymakers, to prioritize the interests of small-scale industrialists in Nigeria.
“Our sector plays a crucial role in driving economic growth, creating employment opportunities and fostering innovation. We cannot afford to be stifled by exorbitant electricity tariffs that threaten our very existence, “Kurawa added.
