The Federal Government has launched a mass metering initiative across Nigerian Army formations nationwide, pledging to eradicate estimated billings in the power sector.

Addressing the gathering during the flag-off ceremony at the headquarters of the Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Ikeja military cantonment, Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, announced that the exercise would be conducted in phases, with the Ikeja cantonment marking the commencement of the first phase.

Adelabu revealed that the current phase of the exercise would span six weeks, with an initial release of N12.7 billion out of a total of N40 billion allocated for the mass metering project.

“The mass metering in army formations nationwide will enable us to accurately monitor monthly consumption and ensure appropriate billings, thus eliminating estimated billing,” the minister stated.

He emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda to prioritize regular electricity supply to military installations across the country.

“These smart meters are tamper-proof and equipped with an app for customers to access their consumption statements monthly,” Adelabu explained. He also highlighted the meters’ capability for interconnectivity between grid and off-grid solar power supply.

Furthermore, Adelabu outlined the government’s plan to establish off-grid power sources, particularly solar energy, for military barracks located in remote areas without grid supply.

“We aim to provide 24-hour power supply to barracks nationwide,” he affirmed.

Ashade Olatunbosun, CEO of De Haryor Global Services overseeing the metering project, disclosed that the second phase would commence simultaneously in Abuja and Enugu, benefiting military formations across the 11 Distribution Companies (DisCos) in the country.

In his remarks, Major General A.M. Adetuyi expressed gratitude for the initiative, citing the intermittent power supply experienced at the brigade headquarters and the burden of estimated billing.

“We have tried to resolve this and even involved the state government without any result. This commendable metering project has gladdened our hearts,” he remarked.