The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has reported a surge in consumer complaints across various distribution companies in Nigeria. Leading the list are Eko and Ikeja Electricity Distribution Companies, which recorded the highest volume of complaints during the third quarter of 2024.
The majority of grievances revolved around estimated billing, service interruptions, and slow responses to fault repairs. Many customers have also expressed dissatisfaction with the implementation of prepaid metering systems, which they claim are either inaccessible or delayed.
NERC has noted the need for more accountability and improved customer service from the distribution companies. In its latest report, the regulatory body highlighted that over 80% of complaints filed were related to billing inaccuracies, which have become a persistent challenge for the power sector.
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Efforts are ongoing to address these issues. NERC has mandated electricity distribution companies to improve their customer engagement strategies and fast-track the metering of households to ensure accurate billing.
The power sector remains a critical part of Nigeria’s economic development, but these recurring issues have hindered progress. Stakeholders have called for stricter regulatory oversight and innovative solutions to the challenges facing the sector.
