The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued a stern directive to electricity distribution companies (Discos), urging them to downgrade customers categorized under Band A if they cannot guarantee the promised 20-hour daily power supply.
This mandate, delivered during a recent press briefing in Abuja, comes as part of NERC’s efforts to ensure accountability and fairness in the electricity billing system.
Band A customers, who pay higher tariffs, are entitled to a minimum of 20 hours of power daily under the Service-Based Tariff structure introduced in 2020.
Speaking on the issue, NERC Chairman Sanusi Garba emphasized that Discos must adhere to the terms of the tariff classification or make necessary adjustments.
“It is unacceptable for customers to pay premium rates while receiving substandard service. If you cannot meet the 20-hour threshold, those customers should be reassigned to a lower tariff band,” Garba stated.
The directive has sparked mixed reactions from consumers and industry stakeholders. Many customers have expressed frustration over inconsistent power supply despite higher tariffs, while some Discos argue that challenges such as infrastructure deficits and energy theft hinder their ability to meet supply targets.
Analysts see NERC’s move as a potential game-changer in Nigeria’s electricity sector, pushing Discos to either improve service delivery or face financial repercussions.
However, some have raised concerns about how effectively the directive will be enforced, given the sector's longstanding operational inefficiencies.
This development underscores the need for greater investment in Nigeria's power infrastructure and a renewed focus on ensuring that customers receive value for their money.
As NERC intensifies its oversight, consumers are hopeful that the directive will lead to tangible improvements in power supply across the country.