Wiring the Nation: A Political Economy Analysis of Electricity Access in Nigeria

Abstract

The Nigerian power sector has undergone numerous reforms in the past three decades amidst the pursuit of comprehensive access to electricity. However, despite these efforts and numerous investments, electricity remains elusive for a significant part of the country's populace. This study examines the effect of political institutions on electricity access in Nigeria, covering the period between 1990 and 2021. The study employs a multivariate regression model based on the ordinary least squares method for its time series analysis of data gathered from secondary sources, with a focus on the aggregate of political stability and the absence of violence, control of corruption, government effectiveness, and voice and accountability as a measure of political institutions and the proportion of Nigerians with access to electricity. The study finds a positive and significant connection between political institutions and electricity access in Nigeria and recommends enhancing the political environment through targeted policies to accelerate access to energy across the country.