Nigeria's Electricity Metering Initiative Hits 60% Completion

The Federal Government of Nigeria reported that about 60% of active electricity customers have been metered, with 668,000 meters installed out of 1,033,000 delivered under the Phase 1 of the $500 million World Bank-financed Distribution Sector Recovery Programme. This announcement was made by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, following a meeting of the National Council on Privatisation for 2026, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The metering initiative aims to close the electricity metering gap and eliminate arbitrary estimated billing. Ayodeji Ariyo Gbeleyi, Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, noted that 17 states have established State Electricity Regulatory Commissions since April 2024, with Akwa Ibom State being the latest in July.

He mentioned that adjustments to the implementation of the Electricity Act are necessary and that key stakeholders, including the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Minister of Power, have been directed to engage on proposed amendments.