- AEDC reduced its aggregate technical, commercial and collection losses from 42% to 32% within one year and increased energy intake by nearly 15%.
- The utility also deployed 70,000 meters and plans embedded solar and franchise investments to stabilise supply.
Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) has reduced its aggregate technical, commercial and collection losses from about 42 per cent to 32 per cent within one year. At the same time, the company intensified metering, network upgrades and embedded generation projects to strengthen supply across its franchise area.
Managing Director Chijioke Okwuokenye disclosed this during a media briefing in Abuja. He revealed that AEDC increased its energy intake by nearly 15 per cent over the past year, describing the rise as clear evidence of improved electricity supply.
According to Okwuokenye, the additional intake represents actual power delivered to customers. Therefore, he described the growth as measurable operational progress. However, he admitted that some communities still experience supply gaps.
While acknowledging persistent outages, he assured stakeholders that ongoing infrastructure projects will gradually close the gaps. A key development is the 350-megawatt generation plant under construction by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited in Gwagwalada. AEDC is collaborating closely with NNPC to evacuate the power once the plant becomes operational.
Future supply gains will also depend on the completion of the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano gas pipeline. Improved gas availability, he explained, will stabilise generation and reduce reliance on distant grid sources across northern states.
Beyond generation, AEDC has deployed about 70,000 meters in the last 14 months under the Meter Asset Fund and the Distribution Sector Recovery Programme. The rollout aims to eliminate estimated billing, enhance transparency and strengthen sector liquidity.
Improved revenue collection has enabled the company to meet 100 per cent of its market obligations and begin settling legacy debts. By paying generation companies promptly, AEDC supports gas suppliers and reinforces stability across the value chain.
Plans are also underway to introduce embedded solar generation in underserved areas. Specifically, AEDC intends to build three 10-megawatt solar plants around Lokoja, with room for expansion as demand grows. These clusters will cushion customers against grid shortfalls and deliver more stable local supply.
To address infrastructure gaps in difficult-to-serve areas, the company will adopt a franchise model that attracts private investment. This approach should improve networks in Kogi, Niger and Nasarawa states while spreading capital requirements.
Regarding tariffs, Okwuokenye emphasised value creation rather than price hikes. As losses decline and supply expands, he argued, tariffs should stabilise because electricity remains a volume-driven business.
However, he identified power theft and vandalism as persistent threats. He cited recent cases of illegal energy diversion and urged customers to support anti-theft efforts. He maintained that reducing losses will lower tariffs and enhance service quality.
Okwuokenye confirmed ongoing discussions with the Federal Government on targeted subsidies for vulnerable consumers. He said distribution reforms aim to unlock sustainable supply and stabilise Nigeria’s electricity market.
AEDC serves the Federal Capital Territory, Kogi, Niger and Nasarawa states. The company remains central to reforms designed to improve grid reliability, expand access and strengthen market performance.