Nigeria’s decision to cut off Niger’s electricity is ill advised. This action comes after a request by France for ECOWAS intervention to oust Niger’s new government. Niger currently relies on Nigeria for a staggering 70% of its electricity, making this move by Nigeria a matter of utmost concern.
This decision by Nigeria could have far-reaching consequences, similar to events in Eastern Europe. Just like NATO-led governments imposed sanctions on Russia following its incursion into Ukraine, the situation here might also have unintended repercussions for Nigeria.
As we recall, the sanctions on Russia affected not only Russia’s economy but also had a depressing impact on NATO and European countries, given their reliance on certain vital resources originating from Russian borders or controlled by Russia.
Instead of capitulating, Russia only increased its resolve to become more self-reliant and increase cooperation with others. When the US cut off access to SWIFT, Russia looked to alternatives like the Chinese yuan and is now leading the charge for the proposed BRICS currency to rival the US dollar.
Nigeria has made the same mistake. It could have perpetuated Niger’s dependence on its electricity. But by cutting off Niger’s electricity in violation of the transaction service agreement, which obliges Niger not to dam the Niger River upstream, Niger now has every justification in the world to build a dam on its portion of the Niger, which will seriously affect Nigeria’s Kainji hydroelectric dam. Not only has the intended objective to harm Niger not been achieved, but Nigeria also loses over 750 MW of electricity and potentially has water supply from the Niger river interrupted.
For those unfamiliar with the situation, Nigeria has been supplying electricity to the Republic of Niger to prevent the construction of a dam on the Niger River. This river is of significance as it flows through Niger, providing a crucial water source for both countries.
By providing Niger with electricity, Nigeria had successfully convinced them not to build their own dam, which could enable them to generate electricity independently. This arrangement underscores the intricate relationship between the two nations, where Niger’s access to electricity hinges on refraining from building the dam.
Now with Nigeria cutting off its electricity supply, Niger might reconsider its stance and expedite the construction of the dam on River Niger, potentially disrupting the flow of water downstream. Such an action could have grave implications for Nigeria’s use of the river’s water.
And who can blame them?
