Energy Access, Development, and Legal Rights: A Nigerian Perspective

Access to reliable and affordable energy is necessary for economic growth, social development, and the fulfilment of fundamental human rights. In Nigeria, despite its status as a major energy producer, millions of people remain without electricity, with access gaps particularly pronounced in rural and underserved areas. Although initiatives like the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP) and the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) have enhanced energy access, the lack of legal recognition of energy as a right continues to compromise equity, accountability, and long-term sustainability. This paper explores how energy access, legal frameworks, and economic development intersect in Nigeria, drawing on international declarations, national policies, and comparative experiences from the Global South. It emphasises the economic effects of electrification on education, healthcare, and productivity, while examining tensions between climate commitments and development priorities. The paper argues that codifying energy access as a legal right is critical for improving citizens, strengthening regulatory enforcement, and fostering inclusive growth. By aligning law, economic, and human rights perspectives, Nigeria can build a more resilient and equitable energy future in which no one is left behind.