Financial Energy Review
……..by Victor Egbo………
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has called on electricity consumers across the country to actively exercise their rights and fulfill their obligations to ensure a reliable electricity supply from service providers. This appeal was made by NERC’s Commissioner for Consumer Affairs, Aisha Mahmud, during a customer complaints resolution meeting held in Lokoja, Kogi State.
The event, organized in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency, aimed to enhance consumer awareness about their rights and responsibilities under the Electricity Act of 2023, which governs the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). Mahmud emphasized that NERC, an independent body established by the Electric Power Sector Reform Act of 2005, is responsible for regulating the technical and economic aspects of the electricity sector. This includes licensing operators, determining operating codes and standards, and setting industry tariffs.
During her address, Mahmud stressed the importance of consumer engagement, noting that many Nigerians remain unaware of the regulations governing electricity supply. “When you pay for electricity, it is your right to receive the service from Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC). If there are any failures in service delivery, you have the right to report them to the Commission for immediate action,” she stated.
Mahmud also discussed the issue of metering, highlighting that it is AEDC’s responsibility to provide meters to customers at no cost. She assured attendees that NERC would address any complaints related to metering issues.
Chyioke Okwuokenye, Managing Director of AEDC, who was represented by Mr. Olaseni Agunpopo, the Chief Business Officer for Kogi State, emphasized the meeting’s purpose: to address customer complaints and improve service delivery. Okwuokenye expressed appreciation for the customers’ cooperation and support.
Mercy Ohamuche, a staff member of NERC’s consumer affairs division, provided an overview of customer rights and obligations. She noted that consumers have the right to lodge complaints about poor electricity supply and lack of metering. Additionally, customers are entitled to be informed about major repairs that might affect their power supply.
On the obligations front, Okwuokenye stressed that customers must pay their bills promptly and maintain good relations with electricity workers. He also highlighted the importance of reporting any vandalism of electricity infrastructure to the appropriate authorities.
The meeting underscored the mutual responsibilities of both consumers and service providers in ensuring a functional and efficient electricity sector.
