PRIVATIZATION AND PERFORMANCE OF BENIN ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION COMPANY (BEDC) IN EDO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This research examines the privatization and the performance of Benin electricity distribution company (BEDC) in Etsako-West local government area, Edo State, Nigeria, focusing on the crucial performance of electricity in advancing the economies of developed nations toward industrialization. However, despite substantial budget allocations for power in Etsako-West Local Government Area viz-a-viz Nigeria, the supply remains sporadic and unreliable. With a study population estimated at 294,000 based on data from the Nigeria Population Commission of 2022, a sample size of 247 was determined using the Freund Williams sample size determinant, employing questionnaires for data collection. The test-retest methodology was utilized, followed by ANOVA and Correlation Coefficient testing to ascertain the F-statistics, correlation, and p values. The results indicate a significant impact of ownership transfer on the service quality of BEDC alongside a notable correlation between regulatory frameworks and operational efficiency of BEDC in the same locality. The following recommendations are made: there should be strategies aimed at bolstering service quality post-privatization, policy reform, and investment; there is a need for stakeholder collaboration and monitoring in day-to-day activities, and the government should fortify the regulatory framework governing Benin electricity distribution company (BEDC) operations in Etsako-West Local Government Area.