Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has linked persistent electricity shortages in rural communities to population growth.
Fayose made the remark in Abuja after his inauguration as Chairman of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) governing board.
Speaking on the need to expand electricity access, he said many rural communities become dark from about 7pm, leaving residents with few options for entertainment and recreation.
He jokingly suggested that with little to do at night, residents may spend more time with their spouses, leading to more children.
Fayose argued that providing electricity could change the situation by creating opportunities for nightlife, entertainment and other social activities outside the home.
According to him, improved electricity supply would not only light up homes but also boost social and economic activities in rural communities.
His comments came as he assumed leadership of the REA, which is responsible for expanding electricity access to underserved and off-grid communities.
Fayose was inaugurated alongside other members of the governing board by the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe.
The new board is expected to support efforts to improve electricity supply across rural and underserved communities in Nigeria.
