NEMSA gives EEDC 4 weeks to fix Afikpo 33kV feeder defects

From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja

The Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) has directed the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) to rectify over 31 critical defects detected on the Afikpo 33kV feeder within four weeks. The move aims to prevent potential hazards that could threaten lives and property.

The defects, identified during inspections led by Osita Obiukwu of NEMSA’s Enugu Inspectorate Office, include right-of-way violations, vegetation encroachment, broken cross-arms, and aged, weak, and undersized 33kV overhead conductors with multiple joints. Several lines were reportedly passing over residential and commercial areas, posing serious public risks.

According to NEMSA, under the Electricity Act 2023, the agency is mandated to enforce safety compliance across power plants, transmission systems, distribution networks, and electrical installations while providing technical support to ensure safe and reliable electricity supply.

“As part of this mandate, EEDC has been given four weeks to address all identified defects at the Afikpo Injection Substation and its associated networks,” NEMSA stated.

In related developments, NEMSA engineers recently completed inspections of transformers in Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto states to ensure compliance with technical standards before commissioning.

Among the installations checked were a 500kVA substation at New Layout, Birnin Kebbi; a 300kVA relief substation at Barakallah Area, Gusau; and another 300kVA relief substation at Arkila Area, Sokoto.

The NEMSA National Meter Test Station (NMTS) in Port Harcourt also concluded its bi-annual verification and calibration of meter-testing equipment. Engineer Koproda Cyriacus, head of NMTS Port Harcourt, highlighted the importance of the exercise:

*”This exercise ensures precision and integrity in all instruments used to test and certify electricity meters nationwide, reinforcing consumer confidence in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry.”*

With Nigeria set to attract new domestic and foreign investments in renewable energy, NEMSA has intensified pre-energization inspections of renewable installations. Vice President Kashim Shettima recently announced that these investments would create over 1,500 direct jobs and accelerate the country’s clean energy transition.

Commenting on NEMSA’s role, Managing Director and Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation, Engineer Aliyu Tukur Tahir, said:

*”No installation is energized until it meets the required regulations for testing, inspection, and certification by NEMSA. These checks protect people, property, and the reliability of our energy system.”*

Tahir reiterated the agency’s commitment to expanding monitoring capacity, enforcing technical standards, and collaborating with stakeholders to deliver safe, reliable, and sustainable electricity across Nigeria.