Investigation to Address Reported Discrepancies in the National Mass Metering Programme
The House of Representatives has announced plans to investigate the funds allocated to Licensed Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as part of the National Mass Metering Programme (NMMP).
This decision follows the adoption of a motion presented by Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo (LP, Anambra) during Thursday’s plenary. Okonkwo highlighted that the NMMP, initiated by the federal government through the CBN, aimed to provide loans to licensed DisCos, intending to enhance customer metering and eradicate estimated billing practices.
The lawmaker emphasized that the program sought to meter over 6 million households and businesses by the end of 2021, aligning with the power sector reform agenda to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the industry.
Expressing concern, Okonkwo stated, “There have been reports of discrepancies, mismanagement, and non-compliance with the terms and conditions of the loans disbursed under the NMMP by some DisCos, leading to inefficiencies, underperformance, and failure to achieve the objectives of the NMMP.”
The motion highlighted the lack of proper oversight, monitoring, and evaluation of funds disbursed under the NMMP by the CBN, creating opportunities for corruption, diversion, and misappropriation of public resources.
The House, in response to the motion, urged the Central Bank of Nigeria to furnish a comprehensive report on the NMMP’s implementation. This report should encompass details such as the number and amount of loans disbursed, as well as the current status of the loans provided to the House of Representatives.