Electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) in Nigeria billed a total of N742.34 billion to customers in the second quarter of 2025, but managed to collect only N564.71 billion, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has revealed. This reflects a collection efficiency of 76%, a slight improvement over the 74% recorded in the previous quarter.
The report highlights a revenue shortfall of about N177.6 billion, meaning that a significant portion of billed electricity remains unpaid. Eko Disco led in collections, recovering N106 billion of N120 billion billed, followed closely by Ikeja Disco at N105 billion from N127 billion billed, while Abuja Disco collected N89 billion of N116 billion.
Port Harcourt Disco posted the most notable improvement in collection efficiency, rising to 70% — nearly a 10% increase from the prior quarter. Conversely, Jos, Kaduna, and Yola Discos continued to struggle, with collection efficiencies of 44%, 50%, and 56% respectively, underlining persistent regional disparities.
NERC also highlighted metering as a key factor influencing collection. Discos with higher metering rates generally saw better repayment, while areas relying heavily on estimated billing experienced ongoing resistance and revenue losses. By Q2, only 54.3% of Nigeria’s 11.8 million electricity customers were metered, despite the installation of 225,631 new meters during the quarter. Ibadan Disco led meter deployment, adding 45,000, followed by Ikeja (39,000) and Abuja (32,000).
Despite collection gaps, Discos largely maintained their remittance obligations to the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET) and the Market Operator, achieving a market remittance rate of 96.65%. Several utilities, including Abuja, Eko, and Ikeja Discos, recorded full remittance compliance, while Jos and Yola lagged behind.
The report also flagged high technical, commercial, and collection (ATC&C) losses across the sector, averaging 38% — well above the NERC target of 21%. Eko Disco was the only company to beat its target with a 15% loss, while Kaduna and Jos reported extreme losses of 71% and 62%, highlighting ongoing operational challenges.
NERC further announced that it issued 66 regulatory instruments in the quarter, including new licences, permits, and certifications for Meter Service Providers (MSPs) and Meter Asset Providers (MAPs), aiming to improve industry accountability and performance.
