Electricity Consumers Protest Fresh Hike In Prepaid Meter Prices Amid Rising Costs

Abuja, Nigeria- Electricity consumers in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have expressed concerns over the recent increase in prepaid meter prices, arguing that the higher costs could strain affordability and limit access to essential power services.

The price hike, announced by Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) on their official X handles, took effect on November 5.

This adjustment follows a prior increase in August, adding to worries among consumers already facing a difficult economic climate.

According to the new pricing, the cost of a single-phase meter has surged from approximately N117,000 to N149,800—a difference of N32,800.

Meanwhile, three-phase meters now range around N236,500, up from N206,345, depending on the distribution company and vendors.

FCT residents and consumer rights advocates argue that the price hikes could lead to further financial strain for households and businesses reliant on prepaid meters to manage their power costs.

The News Agency of Nigeria that some consumers expressed discontent on Monday over a recent price hike for electricity meters, calling it unfair amid the country’s tough economic conditions.

Alice Ogar, a resident of Lugbe, shared her frustration, explaining that when she attempted to purchase a single-phase meter, she discovered the price had surged from N117,000 to N148,000. “I was shocked,” Mrs. Ogar said.

“The last time I checked, it was N117,000, and that’s what I had budgeted for. Now, I don’t know how to gather the additional amount.”

Similarly, Edem Okon recounted how his neighbor had bought a three-phase meter for N206,345.65 in October, but by the time he was ready to purchase one, the cost had jumped to roughly N236,500.

Mr. Okon questioned the necessity of the increase, saying, “Prices are skyrocketing, and it’s affecting everyone.”

Itohan Efosa, who resides in Apo Resettlement, said the rising costs are discouraging.

She had planned to buy a meter to escape the burden of estimated billing but now sees the price hike as a setback.

In Kubwa, Frank Oloton suggested the government should consider distributing meters free of charge, noting that they were once provided at no cost.

“Why can’t the government offer these meters free to Nigerians to eliminate estimated billing?” he asked.

Another Kubwa resident, Jude Okolo, echoed these concerns, adding that the rising prices could motivate distribution companies to rely more on estimated billing.

“Many are struggling to feed, yet meter prices keep going up,” he said.

“The government should cushion the effect of these hardships.”

Under the new pricing structure, Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) customers will pay between N123,130.53 and N147,812.5 for single-phase meters, and N206,345.65 to N236,500 for three-phase meters.

Ibadan Disco’s rates range from N130,998 to N142,548 for single-phase meters and N226,556.25 to N232,008 for three-phase meters.

Kano Disco customers will pay between N127,925 and N129,999 for a single-phase meter, and N223,793 to N235,425 for a three-phase meter.

Kaduna Disco lists prices from N131,150 to N142,548.94 for single-phase meters and N220,375 to N232,008.04 for three-phase meters.