FG Launches Free 3000 Smart Pre-paid Meter Rollout In Yobe
By Alhaji Yusuf, Damaturu
The Federal Government,with the support of the World Bank through the Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC), has begun the installation of 3,000 free pre-paid meters for customers in Yobe.
The Yobe Regional Manager (YEDC) Ibrahim Salisu, made this known on Thursday in Damaturu, stating that the programme is designed to enhance the distribution company’s performance and ensure billing transparency.
“We want to assure the general public that these meters are free. There is no charge for the meter and no charge for installation. Everything is free,” Salisu emphasized.
He explained that the initial phase will target customers classified under Band A.
“The deployment includes 2,500 single-phase meters and 1,000 three-phase meters.
“The installation began immediately in the Three-Bedroom area on Maiduguri Road, Damaturu,” he said.
Salisu clarified that the programme is distinct from the previous Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme, where customers paid vendors for meters.
He stressed that under the new programme, “nobody should request any payment, and no one should offer any payment.”
While the rollout starts with Band A customers, the Manager confirmed that the programme would eventually be extended to all customer bands.
“The meters provided are smart meters certified by the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA),” he added.
The YEDC is seeking the full cooperation of all customers and has urged the public to report any requests for payment for the meters or their installation directly to the company.
Some customers,Salisu and Abubakar, from the Three-Bedroom area on Maiduguri Road in Damaturu expressed their happiness with the development, praising the efforts of the Federal Government and the World Bank.
