NGThe article critiques the recurring media narrative surrounding Nigeria's alleged 'cross-border power debt' of ₦17.45 billion, arguing that it is a misrepresentation of the country's energy trade policies. It explains that this figure represents a residual service charge, not actual debt owed by neighboring countries. The author highlights that Nigeria implemented reforms in 2017 and 2019 to shift cross-border electricity supply to direct, guaranteed bilateral contracts between Nigerian generating companies and neighboring utilities. These contracts require financial guarantees and operate on surplus capacity, ensuring commercial discipline. The article emphasizes that the ₦17.45 billion is a minor administrative fee, not indicative of exploitation, and that the broader issue lies in completing the transition to these modern contractual frameworks. It calls attention to the fact that many grid generators have not yet adopted these contracts, leading to ongoing disputes.
Bias read (Center): While the article addresses a politically sensitive issue—Nigeria's energy policy and relations with neighboring countries—it does not take a clear ideological stance. Instead, it presents a balanced critique of media sensationalism and advocates for policy reform without overtly endorsing any left-
