By Erewunmi Peace

Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) in Nigeria have rejected the Federal Government’s directive to provide and install prepaid electricity meters free of charge for all electricity customers.

The directive, announced by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, mandates that meters imported under the World Bank–funded Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DSRP) must be installed at no cost to consumers, and that any charges by DisCos or meter installers would be considered illegal.

However, the DisCos argue that the plan is unrealistic without a clear funding and cost-recovery mechanisms.

They say someone still needs to bear the cost of meters and installation, and without clarity, the policy could undermine the ongoing Meter Asset Providers (MAP) scheme.

DisCos also criticized the government for implementing the directive without adequate consultation with stakeholders, including meter providers and installers. They warned that the policy could create confusion among consumers and disrupt electricity supply management.

The disagreement highlights the ongoing tension between government policy goals and practical implementation challenges in Nigeria’s electricity sector.