Federal Government Launches Free Electricity Meter Initiative Nationwide
The Federal Government has announced a groundbreaking initiative that allows Nigerian consumers across all 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory Abuja, to collect electricity meters and have them installed completely free of charge. This program represents a significant step in addressing the country's persistent metering challenges and improving power sector efficiency.
Closing the Seven Million Meter Gap
Officials confirm that this initiative forms part of a comprehensive reform program specifically designed to close Nigeria's substantial electricity meter gap, which currently stands at approximately seven million units. The government has intensified efforts throughout January 2026 to accelerate meter deployment across the nation's power sector infrastructure.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has issued a stern warning that no consumer should pay any fee for meter supply or installation, describing any request for payment as "illegal and unacceptable." He emphasized that violators, including officials from electricity distribution companies and their contractors, will face prosecution for non-compliance with this directive.
Government Bans All Meter Installation Charges
The Federal Government has officially prohibited electricity distribution companies and their installers from collecting any form of payment for meters. This ban was reinforced during Minister Adelabu's inspection visit to APM Terminals in Apapa, Lagos, where he examined a newly imported batch of 500,000 smart meters.
During his visit to the Apapa Port Command of the Nigerian Customs Service, where he was received by Area Controller Emmanuel Oshoba, Adelabu expressed satisfaction with the importation progress under the Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP). He stated unequivocally: "I want to mention that it is unprecedented that these meters are to be installed and distributed to consumers free of charge—free of charge! Nobody should collect money from any consumer. It is an illegality."
Progress of Meter Deployment and Application Process
Reports indicate that the program has already delivered close to one million meters into the country, with installers deploying approximately 150,000 meters to customers across various regions. The latest consignment of 500,000 smart meters marks a substantial increase in delivery momentum, raising expectations for accelerated progress in addressing long-standing metering challenges.
Electricity distribution companies are providing additional online channels for customers to apply for free meters. For instance, Eko Electricity Distribution Company announced on its Facebook page in 2025 that all Band A and B customers are eligible to apply for free prepaid meters under the MAF Tranche B program.
Eligible customers in Lagos and other regions can visit designated online portals to register or log into their accounts. New customers are directed to specific registration pages to begin the application process for free meter installation.
Cornerstone of Power Sector Reform
The Federal Government confirms that free electricity meter installation remains a cornerstone of Nigeria's power sector reform agenda. Consumers are reminded that they should not pay any charges for meter supply or installation, with authorities emphasizing strict compliance expectations from all distribution companies.
The government has committed to deploying 3.4 million smart meters nationwide under the World Bank-funded Distribution Sector Recovery Programme, with sanctions awaiting any violators of the free installation policy. This initiative represents a significant effort to improve transparency, reduce estimated billing, and enhance overall electricity service delivery across Nigeria.
