Determinants of household access to electricity in Nigeria

Abstract Purpose This study examines the demographic, spatial, and economic determinants of household access to electricity in Nigeria, a country characterized by persistent energy poverty and pronounced infrastructure inequality. It assesses how socioeconomic status, housing characteristics, and geopolitical location influence electricity access and identifies structural constraints to inclusive electrification. Design/methodology The study uses nationally representative micro-data from the LSMS-ISA General Household Survey–Panel Wave 4 (2018/2019). Chi-square tests and a properly specified logistic regression model are employed, supported by robustness diagnostics including multicollinearity checks, Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test, pseudo-R² statistics, and ROC/AUC analysis. Results are reported as odds ratios with substantive interpretation. Findings Household electricity access varies significantly by geopolitical zone, urban–rural location, housing type, tenure status, asset value, and annual rent. Urban households are substantially more likely to have electricity, while higher housing value and rent strongly increase access probabilities, reflecting underlying socioeconomic stratification. A combined demographic–economic model outperforms single-dimension models, highlighting the multidimensional nature of energy inequality. Practical implications The findings support differentiated electrification strategies, including expanded off-grid and mini-grid systems in underserved areas and targeted subsidies for low-income households, alongside reforms addressing spatial planning and institutional constraints. Originality/value This study provides recent national-level evidence on electricity access in Nigeria using a rigorously validated logistic framework and integrates technology adoption, environmental justice, and poverty-trap perspectives to inform policy and development planning.