Nigerians cut back on electrical gadgets to save on pre-paid meter bills

Using electrical gadgets has been a popular way for many Nigerians to make daily tasks easier and quicker. From electric stoves and blenders to washing machines and deep freezers, these items have helped make home life more convenient.

However, since the introduction of pre-paid meters, many people have started cutting back on their use of these appliances. Pre-paid meters, which charge people based on their electricity usage, have made some gadgets too expensive to run regularly.

On Monday, September 16, Mrs. Bridget Johnson, a banker, shared her experience: “Since I started using a pre-paid meter, I have stopped using most of my gadgets, especially the electric cooker, washing machine, pressing iron, among other things. We watch television once a day. I had to buy an iPad where I downloaded various types of cartoons and educational materials for my kids to keep them busy. We switch off the lights and turn on my fridge for three hours, then switch it off once it’s iced for a day.

“The rate at which the pre-paid meter runs is alarming recently. Before, I paid N32 per unit, and when I loaded N10,000 with strict adherence to the rules my husband and I placed in the house, it lasted us up to two weeks. But recently, when I loaded N10,000, it didn’t last even two weeks before it was used up. I called the electricity distribution office, and they told me I had been moved to band A. I was so upset, but I had no choice but to accept it. In Nigeria today, you have to cut costs whether you like it or not.”

Mr. Shodimu Olorunfemi, a businessman, explained: “Using a pre-paid meter has its advantages. One of them is regulating what you consume. By doing so, you have to give up using certain electronic gadgets that consume lots of electricity. Gadgets like electric cookers, hot plates, pressing irons, refrigerators, and air conditioners use a lot of electricity.

“In my house, I’ve prohibited turning on lights during the day and watching television all the time. Unless I have an important event, I don’t iron my clothes. I pick out my clothes for each day and hang them to straighten up. My wife and I had to give away most of our gadgets to family members and friends who use post-paid meters. With this change and the state of the economy, those selling electronic gadgets are losing out because people like us won’t even buy new ones, let alone replace broken ones.”

Mrs. Bakare Judith, a secretary and newlywed, mentioned: “I sold all my high-energy appliances when I found out that my husband uses a pre-paid meter. I use the blender once every two months and only iron clothes occasionally.”