The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a decisive directive to electricity distribution companies, mandating the replacement of aging and weak distribution networks in their operational areas within one week. This order, communicated through the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA), follows a two-month notice previously issued to the Distribution Companies (Discos) to undertake necessary improvements. Tukur Aliyu, the Managing Director of NEMSA and Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation, highlighted this significant development during the 2024 Customer Service Week held in Abuja, emphasizing the urgent need for enhancing the safety and efficiency of electricity distribution across the country.
The impetus behind this directive stems from NEMSA’s investigation, which revealed that most distribution networks throughout Nigeria are outdated and inadequate. The agency’s findings pointed to a critical need to upgrade these networks to ensure the secure and reliable delivery of electricity. In a notable incident in Calabar that resulted in electrocution, NEMSA had previously instructed the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company to improve its infrastructure in the region. However, after two inspections, NEMSA concluded that the executed improvements were subpar and insufficient, prompting them to issue an enforcement notice to the utility company.
Aliyu elaborated on NEMSA’s approach to rectify these shortcomings, indicating that their inspections of various networks had uncovered pervasive issues throughout the country. As a result, the agency had devised comprehensive enforcement directives applicable to all electricity distributors nationwide, equipping them with a two-month timeframe to meet these requirements. With the deadline approaching, NEMSA has mobilized its officers to monitor compliance and report back on the status of the upgrades, ensuring that electricity consumers benefit from improved safety and reliability in their power supply.
During the Customer Service Week event, Aliyu also emphasized the importance of customer safety and urged electricity consumers to engage certified electricians for all installation work on their properties. By using certified professionals, consumers can create a traceable record that can be crucial in addressing any safety concerns arising from electrical installations. Aliyu underscored the necessity of following technical standards established to mitigate hazards related to electrical work, highlighting the critical role of certified personnel in achieving safety and compliance.
Participating in the event, Mrs. Nnenna Akajemeli, the National Coordinator of SERVICOM, highlighted the significance of Customer Service Week in fostering teamwork and boosting employee morale within service-oriented industries. She remarked that the theme for 2024, “Above and Beyond,” accentuates the need for organizations to exceed service expectations, whether internally focused or directed towards external customers. This emphasis on raising the bar in service delivery extends to the testing and certification of electrical installations across Nigeria, ensuring quality assurance that is paramount for both consumer safety and satisfaction.
In summary, the recent directive from the Federal Government to electricity distribution companies reflects a proactive approach to addressing the longstanding issues of aging infrastructure and safety in Nigeria’s electricity sector. By mandating immediate upgrades and calling for the engagement of certified electricians, the government aims to enhance the reliability of electricity distribution while safeguarding public welfare. The ongoing initiatives and discussions during the Customer Service Week serve to reinforce the commitment to outstanding service delivery, highlight the need for collaboration and compliance, and ultimately work towards a more efficient and secure electrical system for all Nigerians.
