Stories by Sam Otuonye
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has approved N30 billion for the third tranche of the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF) to provide free electricity meters to unmetered Band A customers and accelerate metering for Band B customers.
The approval was contained in Order No. NERC/2026/121 on the Operationalisation of Tranche C of the MAF, which took effect from November 2, 2026. The initiative is part of the Presidential Metering, aimed at reducing Nigeria’s metering gap and improving electricity service delivery.
The funding will be distributed among the 11 electricity distribution companies (DisCos) according to their respective contributions to the Fund, with installations spread equitably across states within their franchise areas.
Under the Order, NERC directed DisCos to conduct transparent procurement processes involving eligible Local Meter Manufacturers and Assemblers (LMMAs) and Meter Asset Providers (MAPs) with verified meter stock.
The Commission has also set maximum procurement prices based on the median national MAP online bid prices recorded during the September 2026 bid cycle.
Selected meter providers will receive 70% of their payment after verified delivery of meter stock.
The remaining 30% will be paid after the Commission confirms that installation has been completed.
All meters supplied and installed under the programme must be provided free of charge to electricity customers.
Each meter must display the name of the relevant DisCo, the applicable MAF tranche and the inscription “NOT FOR SALE”.
The Order further stated that where a DisCo initiates the relocation of an existing customer’s connection point for revenue protection purposes, the distribution company must bear the cost.
NERC has introduced monitoring and accountability measures to ensure that the funds are properly utilised and meters are delivered to customers.
The Fund Manager, DisCos and participating meter providers are required to comply with reporting, monitoring and evaluation requirements. All supply and installation contracts must also be filed with the Commission.
The Order provides for sanctions where a DisCo’s default prevents or delays meter installation.
All installations under Tranche C must be completed on or before May 31, 2027. NERC urged stakeholders to comply with the requirements, saying the initiative would support efforts to close the national metering gap, improve revenue assurance, enhance service delivery and protect electricity consumers.