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Free Meters, Unclear Costs: Why Electricity Consumers May Pay the Price

Abubakar Ibrahim, PhD A few days ago, the Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu directed electricity consumers in Nigeria not to pay for the installation of meters. He also warned that any Distribution Company (DisCo) that violates this direction will face serious sanctions. This announcement raised a lot of controversy, with some DisCos reportedly describing it as a mare political statement. However, my main concern is, who ultimately bear the consequences? I know you must be guessing, right. Don’t worry, we will get there. There is a proverb that says, when two elephant fight, the grass suffers. In this case, the “grass” is the Nigerian electricity consumer. To understand the situation properly, let us examine the core issue at the center of the disagreement – metering . The Metering Framework There are currently two major metering schemes in Nigeria. The first is the Meter Asset Provider (MAP), this was introduced by the Nigeria Electricity Regulation (NERC) in May 20...

Enugu's Tariff Slash: A Warning Signal or a Wake-Up Call for Nigeria's Power Market?

By Abubakar Ibrahim, PhD Electricity Market Analyst The recent decision by the Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission to lower Band A electricity tariff to ₦160/kWh from 209/KWh may have been well-intentioned, but it opens a complex debate about market stability, subsidy sustainability, and the future of Nigeria’s power sector. The implications is that, Mainpower a subsidiary of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) will struggle to meet its financial obligation to NBET/NISO, this is due to the shortfall in revenue from Band A customers. Moreso, failure to settle 100% of their bills may lead to sanctions from both NBET and NISO. However, some critics have argued that the current Band A tariff is driving electricity consumers off the grid with some seeking an alternative source of power, while others engage in electricity theft. It is also important to note, EERC unilateral move may encourage other states to act in the same way, while this seems pro people's decision, it ma...

Host and Speaker Profile: Abubakar Ibrahim, PhD

Sales & Marketing Professional | Renewable Energy Advocate | Award-Winning Strategist Dr. Abubakar Ibrahim  is a visionary leader and expert in the electricity distribution industry, with over 10 years of experience driving business growth, customer engagement, and operational excellence. As the founder of Empower Consult Africa , a renewable energy firm, and co-founder of the Advocacy for Environmental Conservation Initiative (AECI) Africa , Dr. Ibrahim is at the forefront of climate change action and renewable energy advocacy in sub-Saharan Africa.  Currently serving as the Regional Manager at Jos Electricity Distribution PLC , Dr. Ibrahim has demonstrated an unparalleled ability to lead high-performing teams and achieve outstanding results in revenue growth, customer service, and loss reduction. Under his leadership, the region saw a remarkable month-on-month revenue collection growth  and decreased ATC&C losses solidifying his reputation as a results-oriented ...

Speaker Profile: Murtala Bello

Murtala Bello is a distinguished professional with over two decades of extensive experience in critical sectors including Telecommunications, Public Service and the Power Industry. Currently, he serves as the Head of Corporate Affairs at Azura Power West Africa Limited APWAL , Where he plays a crucial role in key Stakeholder engagement, management of Business Advisory, Approved Budgets and supports the Commercial and Legal Teams as well as achieve Distribution and Group EBITDA.  I n that role, he also deputises for the Managing Director. Murtala's career is marked by deep expertise in building and nurturing strategic partnerships, driving corporate reputation, and effectively managing complex stakeholder and government relations. His comprehensive skill set encompasses corporate communications, consumer perception management, brand building, and project management, all of which have been honed through leadership roles in dynamic and challenging environments. Beginning his career ...

Speaker Profile: Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed

Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed i s a seasoned leader in the electricity distribution sector, currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KE) . In this role, he ensures operational excellence across the company's activities, steering efforts toward efficiency and customer satisfaction. Prior to this, he was the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) , where he successfully drove revenue growth and enhanced profitability through strategic initiatives in metering, billing, and revenue collection. With a career spanning over two decades, Sadiq has extensive experience in various industries, including energy, management consultancy, insurance, and finance, both in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. His diverse roles have equipped him with a deep understanding of the business landscape and the strategic acumen to navigate complex challenges. Sadiq's tenure as Business Development Manager at Mainstrea...

Meet Our Distinguished Speakers for the Upcoming Webinar

We are thrilled to introduce our exceptional lineup of speakers for the upcoming webinar. Abubakar Shuaibu Jimeta, an industry expert with over two decades of experience, Johnson Adetunji Tinuoye, a master in marketing and key account management, Ahmed Alibaba - An Expert in Power Sector Management and Dr. Abubakar Ibrahim, a champion of customer service and innovation. Join us for an enriching session with these renowned professionals on  Date : October 14th, 2023  Time : 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM  as they share their insights and expertise in their respective fields. Speaker Profile: Power Sector Visionary - Dr. Abubakar Shuaibu Jimeta  With a remarkable career spanning over 23 years in Sales, Marketing, and Business Operations, Abubakar Shuaibu Jimeta is a true professional. He has left his mark on notable industries, including Banking, FMCG, and Automobile, and now in the Energy sector. His journey has seen him contribute to the success of multinational firms such as B...

From Stingy Aunts to Grown-Up Realities: Unraveling Childhood Misconceptions

  By Godwin Akawu Likeh  Childhood perceptions often have a humorous way of shaping our understanding of the world around us. Remember those moments when we believed our uncles and aunts were stingy, tight-fisted beings who refused to share their treasures? Fast forward to adulthood, and we find ourselves facing the same financial challenges, realizing that our perceptions were far from the truth. As we navigate through the complexities of adult life, we begin to appreciate the burdens and responsibilities our elders were juggling, shedding light on the reasons behind their seemingly stingy behavior. Childhood memories are dotted with gatherings where we eagerly await the generosity of our aunts and uncles, only to be met with a sense of disappointment. They seemed reluctant to part with their money, often giving us token amounts or practical gifts that paled in comparison to the lavish toys and treats we longed for. Our innocent minds labeled them as stingy, failing to unders...

Reflections of Self: What Do You See in the Mirror?

By Godwin Akawu Likeh  In a world constantly bombarded by external influences, societal expectations, and the pressures of conformity, the simple act of looking in the mirror can become a profound exercise in self-discovery and introspection. Beyond the reflection staring back at you lies a journey of identity, self-acceptance, and the search for authenticity. When we look in the mirror, we often see more than just physical features; we see the embodiment of our experiences, emotions, and aspirations. Our reflections serve as a canvas upon which the story of our lives is painted. But what do we truly see? Is it a clear reflection of who we are, or is it clouded by the perceptions and judgments of others? In an era dominated by social media, where carefully curated images often overshadow genuine expressions of self, the mirror's gaze can be distorted. The pressure to conform to idealized beauty standards and lifestyles portrayed online can create a dissonance between our authentic ...

Welcome to the Energize Your Sales: Effective Marketing Communication Tactics for Electricity Distribution Professionals Webinar Registration!

We're thrilled to present this exclusive opportunity designed to empower you in the dynamic world of electricity distribution sales. Are you ready to ignite your sales success, gain a competitive edge, and master the art of effective marketing communication within the electricity distribution sector? If so, you're in the right place. In this webinar, we'll dive deep into tailored strategies that align precisely with the unique challenges and opportunities faced by professionals like you in the electricity distribution industry in Nigeria. By the end of this session, you'll have the insights and tools to supercharge your sales approach and build stronger customer connections. Stay tuned for more details, and get ready to embark on a transformative journey to elevate your sales prowess and contribute to the continued success of your organization. Register now to secure your spot in this game-changing event, and let's collectively "Energize Your Sales"! Regis...

Exciting News Coming from Adamawa State!

I'm happy to declare that I wholeheartedly support the current ban on tree cutting and all other forms of deforestation. Let's join hands to take a stand against the detrimental practice of felling trees and preserving the lush beauty of our environment. A special shout-out to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his bold and visionary move in implementing this executive order. Your leadership in safeguarding our natural resources is commendable! We eagerly anticipate the effective enforcement of this ban, and ensuring a sustainable future for Adamawa State and beyond.  Let's spread the word far and wide! Let us inspire others to embrace this vital cause and join hands in protecting our precious planet! #AdamawaGoesGreen   #ProtectOurEnvironment   #NoToDeforestation   #GovernorFintiri   #sustainablefutures #climatejustice

Excellence, Innovation, and Customer Satisfaction: Abubakar Ibrahim's Remarkable Career in the Electricity Industry

  Abubakar Ibrahim is a world-class professional in the field of Marketing, Public Relations, Communication, and Customer Service, with a remarkable track record of expertise, achievements, and unwavering values. With over a decade of experience in the power sector, Ibrahim is renowned for his exceptional abilities in driving positive change and innovation within the electricity industry. With an impressive array of academic qualifications, including a Ph.D. in Public Relations and Marketing, a Master's Degree in Public Relations, another Master's in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, and a Bachelor's Degree in Mass Communication, Ibrahim's expertise is unparalleled. His academic background, combined with his extensive industry experience, empowers him to approach challenges with a unique and informed perspective. Ibrahim has worked with esteemed electricity distribution companies such as Kano Electric, Kaduna Electric, and Yola Electric, consistently delivering exc...

Empowering Customers: YEDC's Customer Service Initiative Takes Center Stage at McArthur and ANED Project

  by Ibrahim Danbatta, PhD Earlier today, the Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) had the opportunity to showcase its innovative Customer Service Initiative, Complaints and Dispute Resolution Mechanism at the McArthur and ANED project in Yola, Adamawa state.   With a goal to improve customer satisfaction and build a strong relationship between YEDC and its customers, the initiative seeks to provide an efficient and effective means of addressing customers' complaints and resolving disputes in a timely manner.   At the event, YEDC's representatives listened to customers' grievances and provided solutions to some of their complaints. This clearly demonstrated YEDC's commitment to delivering quality customer service and the ongoing efforts to put in place a standard customer service unit.   The event, organized by McArthur and ANED, was aimed at building consumer awareness and strengthening the customer service capacity of electricity distribution companies....

Communication is Key: How Improving Workplace Communication Drives Employee Performance

  Abubakar Ibrahim, Ph.D Communication is the backbone of any successful organisation. It allows the free flow of ideas, supports team bonding, builds trust, and ultimately drives success. Employee performance may suffer when communication is missing. Lack of clarity of message often leads to misunderstanding, confusion, and most times, missed deadlines. On the contrary, when there is a free flow of information, employee performance soars. Open dialogues, clear expectations and regular feedback can help employees feel engaged and empowered. It helps them to understand their job roles better and feel confident in discharging their duties. As professionals, it is important to understand the power of communication in the workplace. Managers must make it a priority to create and maintain open lines of communication that will foster a culture of collaboration and transparency. Here are ways managers can use communication to improve the performance of their employees: 1. Clear expectatio...