Ikeja Electric has launched a compensation portal that allows eligible Band A customers to claim refunds in the form of free electricity units following prolonged poor power supply earlier in 2026. The initiative follows a directive from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), which ordered electricity distribution companies (DisCos) to compensate customers for failing to meet minimum service levels promised under the Band A tariff.
Background of the Compensation Order
Band A customers, who pay premium tariffs, are entitled to the highest number of daily electricity supply hours. However, many experienced significant disruptions between February and March 2026 due to nationwide generation shortfalls. In a statement issued on June 4, 2026, NERC introduced Directive No. NERC/2026/002 after discovering that several DisCos failed to provide the agreed hours of electricity to some Band A customers. According to the commission, the supply shortages were largely caused by inadequate gas supply to power plants and the vandalism of critical gas pipelines and transmission infrastructure. While acknowledging that these challenges were beyond the direct control of distribution companies, the regulator maintained that affected customers deserved compensation for the reduced service.
How to Claim Compensation
Announcing the development on its official X account, Ikeja Electric urged eligible Band A customers to visit its compensation portal to confirm whether they qualify for the refund. The company stated: "Eligible Band A customers can now conveniently check their compensation status through the Ikeja Electric Band A Compensation Portal." Customers can complete the process by following these simple steps:
- Log in to the Band A Compensation Portal.
- Enter your meter number.
- Check your eligibility status.
- Claim your compensation in free electricity units if eligible.
The firm said the process has been designed to make it easier for customers to verify their status and access the compensation approved by the regulator.
Persistent Power Supply Challenges
The compensation initiative comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with persistent electricity shortages driven by recurring grid disturbances and low power generation. Industry experts estimate that the country generates only about 4,000 megawatts of electricity for a population of more than 200 million people, leaving households and businesses struggling with unreliable power supply. The latest compensation exercise is expected to provide temporary relief for affected Band A customers while authorities work to improve electricity generation and strengthen the nation's power infrastructure.
Ikeja Electric Apologises to Customers
Legit.ng earlier reported that Ikeja Electric apologised to customers experiencing power outages across parts of its network, blaming the disruptions on gas supply shortages affecting electricity generation on the national grid. In a statement released on Friday, March 6, 2026, the company acknowledged the inconvenience caused to households and businesses and assured customers that steps were being taken to address the situation. According to Ikeja Electric, the power cuts are linked to reduced generation capacity on the national grid, which has resulted in increased load shedding across several feeders within its distribution network.
