By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu
The Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) has begun installing 3,000 free smart meters for Band A customers across Yobe State under the Distribution Sector Recovery Program (DSRP), a Federal Government and World Bank initiative aimed at improving electricity distribution and transparency in billing.
Speaking during the flag-off in Damaturu, YEDC Regional Manager, Ibrahim Salisu, said the programme seeks to enhance operational performance and restore customer confidence in the company’s services.
“We are here to inform our esteemed customers about our mid-term plan under the DSRP. The goal is to improve the company’s efficiency and ensure transparency in billing,” he said.
Salisu explained that the first phase targets Band A customers, with 2,500 single-phase and 500 three-phase meters to be installed at no cost. He stressed that both the meters and installation are completely free, warning customers not to pay anyone.
“These are smart meters certified by the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA). No one should collect or give money for installation,” he emphasized.
He clarified that the DSRP is different from the previous Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme, under which customers purchased meters through licensed vendors.
“This programme is fully funded by the Federal Government and the World Bank. It is not MAP — all meters are free,” Salisu stated.
He added that customers with old or faulty meters would have them replaced with smart ones, noting that the installation exercise has started in the three-bedroom quarters along Maiduguri Road and will later extend to other categories of customers.
