Energy Consumption and Life Expectancy in Nigeria

Abstract

This study determined the effect of energy consumption on life expectancy in Nigeria from 1990 to 2023. Energy consumption was proxied by electricity consumption, natural gas consumption, solar energy consumption, and hydropower energy. The study made use of time series data sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Bulletin, World Development Indicators of the World Bank, National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Africa Energy Portal (AEP), and International Energy Agency (IEA). The main data analysis techniques adopted include Augmented Dickey Fuller (ADF) unit root test, correlation matrix, bounds cointegration test, and the Autoregressive Distributive Lag (ARDL) approach. The major findings showed that electricity consumption, natural gas consumption, and solar energy consumption have positive and significant effects on life expectancy in Nigeria, while hydropower energy has a positive and non-significant effect on life expectancy. Premised on the findings, the study concluded that energy consumption plays a significant vital role in enhancing life expectancy in Nigeria. It was recommended among others that the Nigerian government should invest heavily in expanding access to modern energy services, particularly renewable energy sources, to support healthcare delivery, improve environmental quality, and ultimately extend the life expectancy of Nigerians.