Nigeria’s electricity regulator has clarified that not all electricity meters being installed nationwide are free, amid growing confusion over the Federal Government’s metering programmes.
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) said only meters supplied under government-funded schemes must be installed at no cost, while other options still require payment.
NERC Chairman Musiliu Oseni made the clarification on Saturday during a radio interview, following recent warnings against electricity distribution companies (DisCos) over illegal charges.
According to Oseni, meters provided under the World Bank–funded Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP) are fully paid for by the Federal Government and must be given to customers free at the point of installation.
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He warned that DisCos are not allowed to collect any money from customers for DISREP meters, stressing that cost recovery does not involve upfront payments.
However, Oseni explained that the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme is still active for customers who cannot wait for the free rollout. Under this option, customers may pay for meters through approved companies, not individuals.
He advised consumers to remain vigilant, noting that free meters can be identified by the “DISREP” inscription on the device.
The clarification follows a recent directive by Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu, who declared it illegal for DisCos or installers to demand payment for meters imported under DISREP.
Despite the directive, some DisCos raised concerns about long-term cost recovery. The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) later said meter costs would be recovered through tariffs over time, not direct payments by customers.
NERC said the metering drive is part of efforts to close Nigeria’s metering gap, estimated at about 5.9 million customers, and improve transparency in electricity billing.
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