In Nigeria, power cuts hamper young entrepreneurs
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on ThisDay
Illustrative image · Vlada Karpovich · Pexels · Licence PexelsWeak electricity supply prevents young Nigerian entrepreneurs from working, following up with clients and training in digital skills, reports This Day through the testimony of a young Nigerian deprived of power. The problem, which affects millions of people, is holding back the growth of small businesses and the financial independence of a generation encouraged to become entrepreneurs.
Power cuts directly disrupt the work of young Nigerians involved in digital services, online commerce, software development, content creation and remote work, reports ThisDay. A young Nigerian identified as Rolé notably said on social media that a power cut had drained her phone, power bank and computer batteries, preventing her from working.
For these activities, power interruptions can lead to delivery delays, strain relationships with clients and cause freelancers to lose contracts. Young entrepreneurs must also devote part of their income to buying generators and fuel, at the expense of investment in their businesses, reports ThisDay.
The issue comes as the Nigerian government plans a $2 billion allocation for a super-grid linking the east and west of the country, announced on 10 November. At the same time, Nigeria has strengthened vocational training to reduce its dependence on traditional employment, according to previous publications on these measures.
