The Federal Government has directed electricity distribution companies to replace weak distribution networks within their franchise areas within seven days.
This order was issued through the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency and follows a two-month notice previously given to the Discos to implement necessary changes.
The government aims to enhance the reliability of electricity supply and improve overall service quality for consumers.
The NEMSA Managing Director and Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation, Tukur Aliyu, disclosed this to journalists on Monday at the 2024 Customer Service Week in Abuja, according to The Punch.
He noted that the directive followed the discovery that many distribution networks were outdated and inadequate. Consequently, the Discos were instructed to upgrade these systems to ensure the safe and reliable distribution of electricity nationwide.
Following an electrocution incident in Calabar, NEMSA ordered the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company to upgrade parts of its network in the Cross River State capital.
However, Aliyu reported that the work completed by the utility was unsatisfactory after two inspection visits.
“We were there (Calabar) two times to ensure that what we asked them to do was done but we were surprised that they had not done it and so we issued an enforcement notice to them. But when we looked at the networks generally, we also discovered similar networks across the country.
“So, we went to the drawing board and issued enforcement directives to the entire utility companies in the country. They were given two months to make sure that all those areas that were mentioned in the directives were effectively carried out.
“The two-month deadline is ending next week and our officers are already on the ground and will swing into action to monitor those places and get back to us at the headquarters”, he stated.
He said the objective of the celebration of the customer service week is to celebrate teamwork and service of all staff and to ensure that its services and support go above and beyond for customers, “which means that our service processes and delivery should transcend our normal mode of carrying out our functions”.
He also urged electricity consumers to hire certified electricians for installations on their properties.
This practice would ensure that the electricians can be tracked in the event of any safety issues related to their work.
“To effectively mitigate this hazard, we have technical standards and these are the ones that will ensure they are enforced. The first thing to do is to ensure that your electric installation is carried out by a certified personnel. This is the person that is certified and can be traced when there are any issues,” he added.
Speaking at the event, National Coordinator of SERVICOM, Mrs. Nnenna Akajemeli, emphasized that Customer Service Week highlights the importance of valuing people to enhance morale and foster teamwork.
