The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has approved ₦30 billion for the third tranche of the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF), under an order effective November 2, 2026.
Order No. NERC/2026/121 establishes the framework for implementing Tranche C of the Presidential Metering Initiative, which aims to reduce Nigeria's metering gap. The funds will be distributed among the country’s 11 distribution companies (DisCos) in proportion to their contributions to the MAF.
The funding is intended to provide meters for all remaining unmetered Band A customers and speed up installations for Band B customers. Distribution will be spread equitably across states within each DisCo’s franchise area.
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Under the order, DisCos must conduct transparent procurement processes involving eligible Local Meter Manufacturers and Assemblers (LMMAs) and Meter Asset Providers (MAPs) with verified meter stock. NERC has set maximum procurement prices based on the median national MAP online bid prices from the September 2026 bid cycle.
Providers will be paid in two stages: 70% after verified delivery of meter stock and the remaining 30% after complete installation is confirmed. All meters supplied and installed through the MAF programme must be provided to customers free of charge and display the relevant DisCo's name, the applicable MAF tranche and the words "NOT FOR SALE.”
The order also states that DisCos must cover the cost of relocating an existing customer's connection point when the relocation is initiated by the company for revenue-protection purposes. It provides for sanctions when a DisCo’s default impedes meter installation.
To strengthen accountability, the Fund Manager, DisCos and participating meter providers must meet monitoring, reporting and evaluation requirements. All supply and installation contracts must be filed with the Commission. Installations under Tranche C are due to be completed by May 31, 2027.
NERC urged stakeholders to comply with the order, saying it supports efforts to close the national metering gap, improve revenue assurance and service delivery, and protect electricity consumers.
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