The Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON) has expressed concern over the persistent electricity crisis in the country, warning that unreliable power supply is costing Nigeria thousands of jobs, discouraging investment and weakening the nation’s economic growth.
The association made the remarks while calling on the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, to ensure that recent promises of reforms in the electricity sector are translated into visible and measurable improvements across the country. According to the group, Nigerians have endured years of unstable electricity and can no longer afford the economic consequences of frequent power failures.
In a statement signed by its National President, Otunba Frank Ogunojemite, APFFLON described the electricity crisis as one of the greatest obstacles to industrialisation, business expansion and national development. He stressed that no country can build a competitive economy without a stable and reliable power supply.
The association noted that manufacturers, freight forwarders, importers, exporters and other businesses continue to bear the heavy burden of inadequate electricity. Many companies have either reduced their operations or shut down completely because of the rising cost of generating their own power, while some investors have relocated to countries with more dependable infrastructure.
APFFLON stated that the continued dependence on diesel and petrol generators has significantly increased production costs and made Nigerian businesses less competitive in both local and international markets. The group added that the high cost of doing business has become one of the biggest challenges confronting investors and entrepreneurs across the country.
The association also warned that the poor state of electricity supply is affecting operations in the maritime and logistics sectors. According to APFFLON, unstable power has disrupted cargo handling, warehousing, cold chain logistics, transportation and manufacturing activities, leading to higher operating expenses and increased prices of goods and services for consumers.
Ogunojemite urged the Federal Government to prioritise the delivery of stable, affordable and accessible electricity, saying Nigerians would judge the success of ongoing reforms by the actual improvement in power supply rather than policy announcements.
He maintained that reliable electricity remains the foundation for industrial growth, investor confidence, job creation and economic transformation. Without meaningful improvements in the power sector, he warned, Nigeria risks losing more investments, employment opportunities and global competitiveness.
APFFLON further emphasised that the successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area depends largely on the availability of stable electricity to support manufacturing, logistics and efficient port operations. The association said improved power supply would reduce production costs, increase productivity and position Nigerian businesses to compete more effectively across Africa.
The group called on the government to move beyond promises and deliver lasting solutions that will strengthen the economy, attract fresh investments and create sustainable employment opportunities for millions of Nigerians.
SOURCE: Vanguard news
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