By Okafor Joseph Afam
October 8, 2024

The Federal Government has issued a strong directive to Nigeria’s electricity distribution companies (Discos) mandating them to upgrade weak distribution networks in their franchise areas within seven days. This new directive, relayed through the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA), follows a two-month notice period, which allowed the Discos time to implement the required changes to improve their infrastructure.

Tukur Aliyu, Managing Director of NEMSA and Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation, disclosed this urgent order at the 2024 Customer Service Week held in Abuja on Monday. He emphasized that most of the existing distribution networks are outdated and insufficiently maintained, leading to a compromised electricity distribution system.

“The current state of our electrical distribution network poses safety hazards,” Aliyu remarked. “For safe and efficient electricity delivery, the old and weak networks must be replaced immediately.”

Response to Electrocution Incident

A tragic incident in Calabar, where a resident was electrocuted, triggered the enforcement of these directives. Following this event, NEMSA specifically ordered the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company to upgrade its network. However, after two separate inspection visits, the utility company had failed to meet the required standards, prompting NEMSA to take more assertive action.

“We were surprised to find that after two months, no meaningful progress had been made,” Aliyu said. “As a result, we issued an enforcement notice, and our officers are on the ground to monitor developments and report directly to the headquarters.”

Nationwide Enforcement

The directive to upgrade the weak infrastructure is not limited to the Port Harcourt area but extends to all utility companies operating within Nigeria. Failure to comply within the stipulated time frame of seven days could result in severe penalties.

Aliyu also urged the Discos to ensure that certified electricians conduct all electrical installations, noting that proper certification allows for easier monitoring of the personnel in case of safety violations. “To effectively mitigate hazards, certified professionals must be engaged to carry out all installations,” he stressed.

Customer Service Week

The occasion also marked the beginning of the 2024 Customer Service Week, aimed at recognizing the hard work and collaboration of staff across various sectors. During the event, Aliyu emphasized the importance of delivering exceptional service, adding that every effort should be made to ensure that service processes and delivery exceed standard expectations.

The Nigerian government’s push for the modernization of the electricity distribution system comes at a crucial time as the country seeks to stabilize and improve its power supply, a key factor for economic growth and public safety.