- Targets 30 million consumers
- Payment of new electricity tariffs resumes next week
The Federal Government has commenced nationwide distribution of free electricity meters, under the National Mass Metering Programme (NMMP) to Nigerians.
The NMMP initiative is expected to, and would ensure, distribution of free electricity meters to 30 million Nigerians, with simultaneous launch events of the scheme in Kano, Kaduna, Eko and Ikeja DisCos franchise areas.
The scheme would roll out six million meters for all connections points on the grid without meters over the next 18 to 24 months, estimated to impact 30 million consumers nationwide.
He further said the launch of the NMMP would be part of a continuous effort where all DisCos would go from location to location across the country with their respective Meter Asset Providers to install meters for all Nigerians.
When contacted, the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice-President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Laolu Akande, confirmed the development, but added that more details would emerge as the distribution progresses across the country.
Also, the Federal Government has approved the resumption of the collection of Service-Based electricity Tariffs (SBT) from next week, after sealing a deal with Organised Labour, according to reports.
The Special Adviser on Infrastructure to President Muhammadu Buhari, Engr. Ahmad Zakari, disclosed this in Abuja during the 51st Virtual Power Dialogue, organised by Nigeria Electricity Hub. According to him, since Labour has accepted the new terms, the implementation will begin next week.
The government was forced to suspend the implementation of the new electricity tariff regime in September, following a threat of industrial unrest by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), its affiliates and allies.
However, the federal government and Organised Labour have resolved that the tariffs for certain categories of power consumers should be reviewed downward.
The President had committed that Nigerians would be metered prior to the end of his administration and that estimated billing would be a thing of the past.
