The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has directed electricity distribution companies to refund N20.33 billion to customers under the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) scheme, starting March 1, 2026.
The order, NERC/2026/025, signed February 27 by Chairman Musiliu Oseni and Commissioner Dafe Akpeneye, sets a 12-month timeline for full repayment.
It amends a 2023 directive amid slow reimbursements, with DisCos owing the amount as of December 31, 2025.
Under the MAP framework, customers pay upfront for meters and receive reimbursements via energy credits.
A February 2026 NERC review revealed the backlog.
“DisCos have an outstanding amount of N20.33 billion to reimburse customers for meters procured under the MAP framework as at 31 December 2025,” the order states.
To speed up payments, NERC mandates fully automated credits.
“DisCos shall ensure that the total cost of a MAP meter is recognised as credit on the customer’s account upon activation and disbursed automatically as monthly credits over the approved amortisation period,” it adds.
Prepaid customers will receive two monthly tokens during the 12-month recovery, while postpaid customers will see separate, doubled credit line items on their bills.
DisCos must submit monthly reports and provide dedicated channels for customer complaints.
NERC said the directive aims to end delays, improve transparency, and restore confidence in the power sector.
“Timely, automated reimbursements will strengthen trust and accountability between DisCos and customers,” Oseni said.
