FG Rolls Out 1.3 Million Free Prepaid Metres for Band A Customers, Warns Against Fraud

The Nigerian government has launched the Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP) Metering Scheme, distributing 1.3 million free prepaid meters to Band A customers. This initiative aims to boost service delivery and close the metering gap in franchise areas like Bauchi, Benue, Gombe, and Plateau states.

The meters, provided by the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), contain tamper and bypass detection features. Customers are warned against making any payments for the meters, as the installation is free.

The scheme follows the subsidy removal in April 2023 and is funded by the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF). Additionally, Aba Power has begun the second phase of its smart meter rollout, providing free meters to customers on the Expressway 33kV feeder.

The new Electricity Act law, signed by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023, empowers states to generate, transmit, and distribute power within their boundaries.