The Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) has launched a renewed safety enforcement drive across the country, directing the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) to urgently repair 31 defective power lines recently discovered in Ebonyi State.

According to a statement released in Abuja by the agency’s spokesperson, Ama Umoren, the faults were uncovered during technical inspections of the Afikpo 33kV feeder and the Nibo Injection Substation. The agency said its engineers identified several safety issues, including damaged cross-arms, vegetation encroachment, and aging conductors posing risks to lives and property.

Following the findings, NEMSA has given EEDC four weeks to address all safety violations in line with the Electricity Act 2023, which empowers the agency to enforce technical standards in the power sector.

The Managing Director and Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation, Engr. Aliyu Tahir, said the agency is strengthening its field operations through its 21 inspectorate offices nationwide to ensure all power installations meet approved standards before they are connected to the grid.

“No electrical installation should be energised until it passes NEMSA’s testing and certification. These inspections are not just procedural—they are essential to protect lives, property, and ensure a stable energy network,” Tahir stated.

In a related operation, NEMSA engineers also carried out transformer tests in Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto States. The exercise covered multiple community substations, aimed at reducing equipment failures and improving the reliability of power supply.

Meanwhile, the agency’s National Meter Test Station in Port Harcourt has completed its bi-annual calibration of meter-testing equipment to guarantee accuracy and fairness in electricity billing.

As Nigeria attracts new investments in renewable energy, NEMSA said it has expanded its pre-energisation checks on clean energy installations nationwide.