The country’s metering gap currently stands at over five million, according to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) which highlights the urgent need for adequate metering solutions.
Recently, the Nigerian Senate also joined the chorus, issuing a call to the Federal Government to halt a proposed tender by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to purchase electricity meters from foreign sources for the second phase of the National Mass Metering Programme (NMMP).
In response, indigenous electricity meter manufacturers have been appealing to the government for increased support and licensing to bridge this gap.
The TCN reportedly plans to procure these meters through a World Bank facility, but the Senate has raised concerns over the potential implications for local manufacturers.
Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central, presented the motion in the upper legislative chamber, urging the TCN to explore alternatives with the African Export-Import Bank (AFREXIM) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) if the World Bank does not support local meter manufacturing.
Senator Umeh highlighted that the ongoing World Bank-funded NMMP Phase 2 seems to favor foreign companies’ participation over competent and prequalified local meter manufacturers.
This approach could potentially lead to job losses and revenue drain from the country. Emphasizing the significance of promoting local manufacturing, the Senator stressed that a deliberate policy to prioritize domestic production would spur job creation and economic growth.
The TCN recently concluded bidding advertisements on July 11, 2023, and extended them to July 25, 2023, for the supply and installation of 1.2 million smart meters to the 11 distribution companies in Nigeria.
The Senate’s call for the suspension of the foreign tender aligns with its commitment to bolstering local industries and driving economic growth within Nigeria.
By favoring domestic meter manufacturers, the Senate believes the nation can harness the potential for job creation and technological advancement while retaining revenue within its borders.
Senator Umeh emphasized, “The National Mass Metering Programme represents a critical initiative for providing reliable and efficient electricity metering to Nigerian households and businesses.
“We must ensure that this program benefits our local manufacturers and contributes to the growth of our economy.”
This resolution reflects ongoing efforts to promote indigenous industries and strengthen the Nigerian economy through strategic policies and partnerships.
