Phone-charging businesses in Bauchi metropolis have raised their fees following persistent collapse of national power grid and fuel price hike that often affect businesses and livelihoods.
WikkiTimes survey of some phone-charging centres in the city revealed that fees for charging an android phone had been increased by at least 50% since the beginning of the recent power crisis.
Due to unreliable electricity in houses, less privilege individuals often patronize kiosks/container-style charging spots to power their phones and in some cases their laptops for a fee.
However, incessant fuel increase and persistent power failure had severely affected such businesses across the city.
WikkiTimes observed that charging centres around areas like Yelwa and Wunti have opted to raise their fees by at least 50% or more to remain in the business.
In Yelwa, Aminu Suleiman, who operates a phone charging center, admits that the price hike was not an easy decision but it is a must to survive and maintain servicing the people. “We know people are struggling, but we also have our families to feed and bills to pay. Fuel prices have doubled, and we have no other choice but to raise our fees,” he explains.
At Wunti Market, Hassan Goje, a business center owner, confirmed that the cost of charging phones has risen from 100 naira to 300 naira, while charging power banks and laptops has jumped from 200 naira to 500 and 600 naira respectively. “This increase isn’t our fault. A liter of fuel now costs 1,200 naira, and I need 12,000 naira to fuel my generator every two days. Now, tell me how I’m supposed to raise this amount every two days to meet the needs of the residents who depend on us,” he explained.
Hassan further noted that these challenges have forced them to raise their prices. “The situation is affecting not just me but everyone trying to run a business. Many of us rely solely on generators due to the inconsistent power supply. When fuel prices soar, we have no option but to increase service costs to survive.”
He explained how the high fuel costs and power instability have led some business centers to shut down completely. “Those who cannot afford to keep buying fuel have been forced to close their businesses, leaving customers stranded and increasing the burden on those of us still in operation,” Hassan said.
Hassan emphasized that the rising costs are making it harder for business owners to make a living, adding that customers are also frustrated by the higher prices but have no choice but to pay due to the lack of alternatives. “We understand our customers’ struggles, but if we don’t adjust our prices, we won’t be able to sustain ourselves.
However, while some are increasing their charging fees, others are closing because they could not survive the fuel hike and power outage, leaving residents struggling to adapt to the situation.
Wikkitimes observed that some charging centers in Gwallemaji close to the Federal Polytechnic where students mostly patronize are closed because they are unable to keep up with the surging costs of fuel needed to power generators.
Adamu mustapha, a father of three and owner of a small phone charging kiosk, closed his shop early last month. His kiosk, a small wooden stall lined with power outlets, was once a lifeline for residents needing a reliable place to charge their phones.
“When I started this business, I wanted to save money for my children’s education. Now, I can’t even keep my shop open,” Adamu says with frustration. “I tried running a generator for a few days, but the cost of petrol was almost as much as what I would make in a week.”
In Gwallameji, residents depend heavily on these small businesses not just for phone charging with mobile phones being a primary means of communication, the lack of accessible charging options has left many in isolated. For families who rely on mobile banking or keep in touch with relatives far away, the inability to charge their phones disrupts more than convenience.
Mariam Hajara a local trader who sells vegetables in Gwallemaji market, explains the impact on her business. “My suppliers contact me through my phone. But without charge, I’ve missed deliveries and lost customers who think I’m ignoring them,” she says. “I tried going to Yelwa to charge, but they now ask for double the usual rate.”
