As part of its ongoing public sensitisation programme, the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) has raised awareness on safe electricity use and the importance of adhering to metering standards in the Karu community.
NEMSA’s managing director, Engr. Aliyu Tukur Tahir, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to promoting technical compliance, which ensures safety and prevents power disruptions caused by faulty installations.
He highlighted NEMSA’s role in establishing safe electricity guidelines and urged the community to adopt best practices to ensure both safety and reliability.
“Today, we’re here at your palace as part of our public sensitisation program, reminding consumers of their role in safe electricity usage. We’ve seen disturbances in power supply, often due to lapses in technical compliance. Our agency’s mission is to protect lives and property by promoting safe electricity use,” he said.
Tahir also acknowledged the efforts of Senator Aduda and his team in supporting this initiative.
“We are happy to present this law today, which will serve as a reference for your chieftaincy to understand NEMSA’s important mandate. Additionally, we have publications on safe electricity use and construction guidelines for your council’s reference,” he added.
The MD of Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), Engr. Chijioke Okwuokenye, supported NEMSA’s efforts, emphasising AEDC’s commitment to improving service quality and meter installations, particularly in Jikwoyi.
“Reliable power improves property values, quality of life, and local development. We are fully aligned with NEMSA’s vision to ensure safety for every consumer and piece of equipment. AEDC has strong ties with the Jikoyi community, and we are committed to continuous improvement, ensuring Jikoyi can become a model community in Abuja,” Okwuokenye said.
NEMSA’s head of corporate headquarters, Engr Gideon Fatunmbi, stressed the need for certified meters to ensure accurate billing and safety.
He urged residents to only accept meters with the official NEMSA seal and to use certified professionals for installations to prevent hazards.
The Chief of Karu, HRH Joseph Danfulani Narai, thanked NEMSA and AEDC for their visit but raised concerns about electricity service management.
He highlighted issues with transformer maintenance, slow response times during outages, and technicians demanding payment for services.
Narai also expressed frustration over the lack of transparency in meter distribution, citing a case where a resident’s meter was delayed despite payment.
He raised concerns about faulty equipment, such as bent poles, remaining unrepaired until they cause further damage, posing safety risks to the community.
The chief criticised the reliance on unqualified electricians for repairs, which often worsens the situation, and highlighted the issue of vandalism.
He questioned whether some AEDC staff members might be complicit, given the ease with which stolen cables are sold.
He mentioned a senator’s house had been targeted three times, resulting in over N1.7 million in damages.
Despite these challenges, Narai thanked the visitors and urged authorities to urgently address these issues.
In closing, NEMSA’s executive director, Peter Uj, thanked the royal majesty and the chiefs who raised important questions.
He urged the community to follow up on meter installations, emphasising that doing so would help reduce excessive charges from AEDC.
