Experts call for decisive regulatory action, others in power sector
Power
By Yusuf Yunus
Experts have called for a robust regulation and enhanced service delivery in the power sector, to bridge the metering gap, restore public trust, and reduce persistent sector challenges.
They made this known in seperate interviews with the Business intelligence (TBI AFRICA), in Lagos.
Prof. Barth Nnaji, former Minister of Power, said that Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) as both an enforcer and a facilitator must enforce clear regulations covering licensing, metering, billing, and customer service.
Nnaji stated, “They should impose necessary sanctions, including fines and license suspensions, for failures such as missed metering targets or inadequate complaint resolution.”
He further recommended that tariff approvals be directly linked to the performance of Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) under the Service-Based Tariff (SBT) framework.
Nnaji, current Chairman of Geometric Power, suggested the public release of DisCo performance scorecards to boost transparency and accountability in the sector,
According to him, for DisCos to flourish and rebuild consumer confidence, they must recognise metering, particularly the deployment of smart meters for medium and large customers, as a crucial tool for revenue assurance.
On improved metering, Nnaji explined that the deployment is vital for reducing Aggregate Technical, Commercial, and Collection (ATC&C) losses, thereby enhancing overall sector efficiency.
“Beyond meters, DisCos should prioritise investments in critical infrastructure upgrades, including transformers, feeders, and automation, to minimise technical losses and ensure greater reliability,” he advised.
Also, Dr Olukayode Akinrolabu, Chairman of the Customer Consultative Forum in Lagos, highlighted the necessity of improved communication channels between consumers and regulators.
“NERC should widely publicise complaint mechanisms-such as dedicated websites, helplines, and clear guidelines, to expedite dispute resolution and foster trust,” Akinrolabu urged.
He also stressed the importance of establishing defined timelines for meter applications.
“Applying for a meter should come with clear deadlines for approval, payment, and installation.
“However, customers on postpaid supply must promptly pay for consumed electricity within these timeframes to maintain billing fairness.” Akinrolabu said.
According to him, a one-month window as a practical limit can prevent prolonged delays that can erode customer confidence.
Akinrolabu also expressed optimism about the sector’s future in spite of the existing challenges.
He noted that ongoing reforms, increased investment, and a renewed regulatory focus signal Nigeria’s commitment to closing its metering gap, one meter at a time.
