FG Bans DisCos From Charging Customers for Smart Meter Installation

FG Bans DisCos From Charging for Smart Meters, Warns of Prosecution


The Federal Government has directed electricity distribution companies (DisCos) and their installers to stop charging customers for smart meters, insisting that all meters provided under the World Bank–supported Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP) must be installed completely free of charge.


The directive is part of ongoing reforms aimed at fixing long-standing issues in Nigeria’s power sector, particularly estimated billing and poor accountability.



Speaking on the issue, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, made it clear that no consumer is expected to pay for a smart meter or its installation under the DISREP initiative. According to him, any DisCo staff or installer caught demanding money from customers will be treated as engaging in an illegal act and will face prosecution.


The government says the policy is non-negotiable.



Nigeria has struggled for years with a significant metering gap, forcing millions of electricity users to rely on estimated billing. This has often led to disputes, overbilling, and loss of trust between consumers and distribution companies.

By rolling out free smart meters, the government hopes to:

-End estimated billing

-Improve transparency in electricity charges

-Strengthen consumer confidence

-Reduce revenue leakages in the power sector



The Distribution Sector Recovery Programme is a reform initiative supported by the World Bank to stabilise Nigeria’s electricity distribution system. Under the programme, about 3.4 million smart meters are expected to be deployed nationwide in phases.

These meters are designed to provide accurate readings, enable better monitoring of power consumption, and improve overall efficiency within the electricity supply chain. 


      You can also read: National Grid Suffers Another Collapse, Disrupting Power Supply Nationwide: https://everydaystorynetwork.blogspot.com/2026/01/national-grid-collapses-again.html






The Ministry of Power has warned that attempts to extort consumers, whether openly or indirectly, will not be tolerated. Monitoring mechanisms are being strengthened to ensure compliance, while consumers are encouraged to report any demand for payment linked to meter installation.


Officials say enforcement will be firm to prevent sabotage of the reform process.



Electricity users have been advised to note the following:

-Smart meters under DISREP are free

-No payment is required for installation

-Requests for money should be reported to authorities

-Consumers should demand proper identification from installers



The government believes that closing the metering gap is critical to fixing Nigeria’s power sector. If implemented effectively, the free smart meter rollout could mark a turning point in the relationship between electricity providers and consumers.





For many Nigerians, the success of this policy will depend not just on announcements, but on strict enforcement and accountability on the ground.


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