Nigerian Government Bans Meter Installation Charges, Warns DisCos of Prosecution

The Nigerian government has outlawed meter installation charges by electricity distribution companies, threatening prosecution for any illegal collection. The Ministry of Power issued the warning during a site inspection of newly imported smart meters in Apapa, Lagos.

A total of 500,000 smart meters are set to be distributed, with plans to import 3.4 million meters in two batches. The government aims to bridge the long-standing meter gap and enhance transparency in the power sector.

Ayo Gbeleyi of the Bureau of Public Enterprises disclosed plans to ensure compliance and track installations end-to-end.