The adoption of electrical appliances has been a significant aspect of Nigerian lifestyle, aimed at easing daily activities and saving time. Households have invested in items such as electric stoves, cookers, blenders, washing machines, and deep freezers to enhance convenience in their lives.
Many Nigerians, particularly women, have used thrift contributions (ajo or esusu) to afford these gadgets, contributing to the success of producers and distributors. However, the introduction of prepaid meters has led to a notable shift in this trend.
As prepaid meters have become more prevalent, many households have reduced or stopped using their electrical appliances. Some have even sold their gadgets to those still on post-paid meters or to dealers of used products.
Mrs. Bridget Johnson, a banker, noted that since switching to a prepaid meter, she has significantly cut back on using her appliances. She now limits her television watching, uses her fridge only intermittently, and has switched to an iPad for her children’s entertainment. She expressed frustration over rising costs, stating that her prepaid meter usage has become more expensive and inefficient.
Mr. Shodimu Olorunfemi, a businessman, shared his experience of adjusting to prepaid meters. He emphasized the benefits of regulating electricity consumption but acknowledged the need to forego certain appliances due to their high energy use. He has imposed strict limits on household electricity use and donated many of his gadgets to friends and family with post-paid meters.
Mrs. Bakare Judith, a secretary and newlywed, sold most of her high-energy appliances after discovering that her husband’s home used a prepaid meter. She now rarely uses her blender and irons clothes infrequently.
Overall, the shift to prepaid meters has led to reduced appliance use and changes in household energy consumption patterns, impacting both consumers and sellers of electrical gadgets.