International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) |Volume VI, Issue XI, November 2022|ISSN 2454-6186
Effect of Erratic Electric Power Supply on The Environment
EKPO, C.G., ORJI, N.O. and IS’HAQ, A.B.
Department of Science and Environmental Education,
Faculty of Education, University of Abuja
Abstract: This study investigated the effect of erratic electric power supply on natural and man-built environments in Nigeria. The study was anchored on three hypotheses formulated in line with the objectives of the study. The study adopted descriptive survey design. Sample size consisted of 464 respondents reached across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria via the Google Form. A 5-point Likert scale format questionnaire was used as instrument for data collection. The instrument was pilot tested for reliability using the Cronbach Alpha reliability test method, and a reliability index of 0.83 was obtained. Descriptive statistics and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) were employed for data analysis. It was discovered that erratic electric power supply in Nigeria has significant negative effects on natural and man-built environments; socio-economic development and growth; and human health and wellbeing. It was, therefore, recommended that Nigerian government should prioritize and be more proactive in the supply of a stable and regular electric power; other environmental friendly sources of generating electric power such as solar energy should also be explored to enhance stable and regular electric power supply in the country.
Keywords: Erratic Electric Power, Natural, Man-Built Environment
I. INTRODUCTION
The functions of electricity in the socio-economic system is like that of blood in human body. As blood transports oxygen and nutrients to the lungs and tissues; and regulates body temperature among other functions, the similitude is also with electricity. Electricity energizes appliances and equipment installed in dwelling houses; components of machines in industries, and facilitates functions within intra and inter social cultural sectors such as financial, agricultural, medical, educational and other sectors in the society. As a matter of fact, electric power cannot be separated from sustainable development of every component of the society, be it social, cultural, economic, political, etc.
Indeed, electricity as a form of energy enjoys considerable patronage from both individual and cooperate citizens. It is a crucial source of energy for domestic and non-domestic purposes including commercial and industrial activities throughout the world (Olukoju, 2004). Also, it is a vital input to economic growth and development of every nation. This makes its demand to continue to increase because of its necessity to the maintenance of modern life; and the rate of input and output of goods and services is directly linked to availability of electricity (Akinbami, 2012).