Abstract
The Nigerian textile industry, particularly in Kano State, has long suffered from multifaceted challenges, including erratic power supply, influx of cheaper smuggled textiles, obsolete infrastructure, escalating production costs, weak institutional support, and policy inconsistencies that have undermined its competitiveness and sustainability. These persistent problems, compounded by frequent electricity outages and dependence on costly alternative energy sources, necessitated the present study to examine the impact of power sector reforms in electricity generation and distribution on the performance of textile industries in Kano State.The study adopted public choice theory as its analytical framework. A survey research design was utilized, drawing on both structured questionnaires and secondary data sources. Primary data were analyzed using simple percentages, while secondary data were examined through qualitative content analysis. The findings indicate that the textile industry in Kano State is in significant decline, with numerous firms operating below capacity and others ceasing operations entirely due to inadequate infrastructure, most notably unreliable electricity, alongside rising production costs and diminished competitiveness in both domestic and global markets.Consequently, rather than enhancing industrial performance, the electricity generation and distribution system has exacerbated these challenges through higher tariffs and persistently inconsistent supply, forcing firms to depend on costly alternative energy sources that further erode efficiency and profitability. The study recommends the implementation of targeted industrial support policies, including subsidized energy schemes, infrastructural rehabilitation, and affordable credit facilities, as well as an urgent comprehensive review of power sector reforms to guarantee affordable, stable, and reliable electricity supply for industrial users.
Keywords: Power sector reform, electricity generation, distribution, textile industry, industrial performance
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