The Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) has reiterated its dedication to significantly improve metering services for its customers, following the deregulation of electricity meter prices under the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme. This announcement was made during the Customers Engagement Forum with Mushin business unit customers in Lagos.
Mrs. Rekhiat Momoh, Acting CEO of EKEDC, represented by Mr. Samuel Edoho, General Manager of Commercial (Revenue Cycle) at EKEDC, emphasized the company’s initiative to streamline the procurement and distribution process of prepaid meters. This initiative aims to enhance efficiency and reliability in service delivery.
Momoh highlighted that the priority for EKEDC is the swift installation of prepaid meters for customers who have already made payments but are yet to be metered. This follows the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (NERC) deregulation of smart meter prices under the MAP scheme, which took effect on May 1. This deregulation allows customers to procure meters from vendors at competitive market prices determined through transparent bidding frameworks.
During the forum, Momoh assured customers of EKEDC’s ongoing efforts to ensure constant power supply and improve service delivery. She also mentioned the rehabilitation of structures within the Mushin environment to ensure more consistent power supply. Addressing issues such as prepaid meters, faulty transformers, bad feeders, and pole replacement, Momoh promised swift resolutions to identified problems.
Momoh emphasized that metering is key to resolving disputes, stating, “Metering is the solution to disputes. As long as there is no meter, disputes will continue. With meters, disputes end.” She reminded customers of their responsibility to pay their bills to ensure the company can maintain its service obligations.
Addressing the issue of faulty transformers, Momoh pointed out that large debts in certain communities delay repairs. She encouraged customers to avoid inciting communities against the company and emphasized that payments collected go towards maintaining operational expenses.
In response to customer concerns about delays in metering under the presidential metering initiative, Momoh urged those who cannot wait for the initiative to participate in the current MAP scheme to get metered immediately. She reassured customers who have paid for meters but are yet to receive them to provide their details for prompt attention.
Community leaders and customers at the forum raised various concerns. Mr. Kadiri Rasheed urged the company to improve electricity supply and expedite the installation of prepaid meters. Mr. Micheal Fawole highlighted the issue of underground cables prone to flooding, suggesting rerouting them overhead. Mrs. Bola Ijaiya from Lawanson requested improvements to the Ishaga feeder for better electricity supply.
Mr. Oluwaseun Ogunsola, Manager at Cityway Shopping Complex, Yaba, raised concerns about the sudden increase in estimated billing, which threatens the operation of businesses. He urged EKEDC to find a lasting solution to the billing issues to prevent business shutdowns and layoffs.
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The Chairman of Mushin CDC, Mr. Femi Okunyemi, appealed to EKEDC to address customer complaints to foster a better relationship. He commended EKEDC’s efforts so far but encouraged further improvements.
Mrs. Momoh concluded by reaffirming EKEDC’s commitment to collaborating with customers to solve electricity distribution challenges and urged for mutual cooperation to ensure a brighter future for Nigeria.
