Minna: The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) has announced its ongoing transformation efforts aimed at revitalizing the company’s fortunes and enhancing customer satisfaction. Mr. Chijioke Okwuokenye, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of AEDC, shared this information during an event held in Minna.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Okwuokenye explained that the transformation strategy focuses on customer education, network reliability, and security improvements, alongside substantial investments in infrastructure upgrades. He emphasized the importance of customer satisfaction and education as central to the company’s transformation efforts, highlighting the development of staff to ensure the right personnel are in place to drive these changes.
Mr. Okwuokenye also revealed that over 6,150 meters have been installed in Niger under the Meter Asset Provider and Meter Acquisition Fund scheme, and the company has started refunding customers who had paid for these meters. However, he noted that AEDC faces significant revenue losses in Niger due to challenges such as non-payment of bills and energy theft.
Mr. Sam Odekina, Chief Business Officer of AEDC in Niger, further elaborated on these challenges, identifying the reluctance of customers to pay for consumed electricity as a major issue. This reluctance has led to a notable revenue deficit, hindering the company’s ability to invest in infrastructure and improve service delivery. Mr. Odekina noted that this issue is systemic, contributing to service quality deterioration and safety hazards.
In addition to customer payment issues, energy theft and vandalism have also contributed to revenue losses. To combat these challenges, AEDC has intensified its operational efforts, commissioning a new substation, rehabilitating existing infrastructure, and replacing faulty equipment. These interventions have reportedly led to improvements in billing transparency and customer satisfaction.
