*Three simple steps to apply and get your free smart meter
The Federal Government has reaffirmed that electricity consumers across Nigeria are entitled to receive smart prepaid meters and installation services free of charge, as part of ongoing reforms to address the country’s metering gap.
The initiative, which covers all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, is designed to eliminate estimated billing and improve transparency in the power sector. Officials say the programme forms a core component of efforts to close Nigeria’s estimated seven-million-meter shortfall.
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, stressed that no consumer should be required to pay for meter supply or installation under the scheme. He warned that any electricity distribution company (DisCo) or installer found demanding payment would face prosecution.
Speaking during an inspection of newly imported meters at Apapa Port in Lagos, Adelabu described the free installation policy as unprecedented and non-negotiable. He said requesting payment from customers for meters under the programme constitutes an offence.
The latest consignment of 500,000 smart meters was delivered under the Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP), a World Bank–funded intervention aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s electricity distribution segment.
The government has committed to deploying about 3.4 million smart meters nationwide under the initiative.
According to officials, nearly one million meters have already been delivered into the country, with approximately 150,000 installed in homes and businesses across various regions. Authorities say the new batch is expected to accelerate installation and reduce reliance on estimated billing.
Consumers seeking to benefit from the programme are advised to visit their nearest electricity distribution company office to register for a free meter. Some DisCos also provide online application channels. For instance, Eko Electricity Distribution Company has previously announced online registration options for eligible customers under designated rollout tranches.
How to Apply for Your Free Meter
Getting your meter is simple:
1️⃣ Visit Your DisCo Office
Walk into the nearest electricity distribution company customer service center and register your request.
2️⃣ Apply Online (Where Available)
Some DisCos offer convenient online registration portals.
For example:
Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) allows eligible customers to apply via:
webportal.ekedc.com
webportal.ekedc.com/#/newConnection (for new customers)
Band A and Band B customers are currently eligible under specific rollout tranches.
3️⃣ Await Installation
Once approved, trained installers will schedule installation — free of charge
The Federal Government reiterated that the free meter installation drive remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s power sector reform and urged consumers not to pay any fees for meter supply or installation. Distribution companies have been directed to ensure full compliance, with sanctions awaiting violators.
SOURCE: brandcrunch.com.ng
