Nigerian Government Bans Meter Installation Charges, Threatens Sanctions

The Nigerian government has prohibited electricity distribution companies from imposing charges on customers for meter installation, with the threat of prosecution for any extortion attempts. Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, issued the warning during a site inspection of newly imported smart meters in Apapa, Lagos.

The meters, procured with World Bank funds under the distribution sector recovery program, are to be installed for consumers free of charge. The government aims to enhance transparency and fairness in the power sector by eliminating metering gaps.

Over 500,000 smart meters have been received, with close to 150,000 already installed across distribution companies nationwide.