By Toochi Ejiofor
Edited by Bababunmi Agbebi
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has approved special compensation for eligible Band A electricity customers affected by poor power supply between February and March 2026.
The commission announced the directive following widespread electricity shortfalls experienced by some Band A feeders during the period. Under the current service structure, Band A customers are expected to receive a minimum of 20 hours of electricity supply daily.
According to NERC, the disruption was caused by generation shortages, inadequate gas supply, and vandalism of critical gas and transmission infrastructure, which affected the ability of some electricity distribution companies (DisCos) to meet the required supply threshold.
Despite the shortfall, the commission said affected Band A feeders would not be downgraded during the covered period. Instead, compensation would be provided to eligible customers.
The commission stated that prepaid customers would receive compensation through token credits, while postpaid customers would get bill adjustments or credits reflected in their accounts.
It further directed DisCos not to use the compensation to offset existing debts owed by customers and mandated that beneficiaries must be clearly informed about the value of compensation received.
According to the timeline released by the commission, compensation for February 2026 supply shortfalls is expected to be completed by May 31, while compensation for March 2026 is to be concluded by June 30.
The development comes amid growing concerns over electricity supply reliability despite the higher tariffs paid by Band A customers across the country.
