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Niger Electricity Distribution Limited (NEDL) has cut off electricity supply through the 132 kV Shiroro Transmission Station–33 kV Gwada Feeder and the 132 kV Shiroro Transmission Station–33 kV Erena Feeder, leaving residents in the area in darkness.
In a statement, NEDL explained that the action follows the persistent accumulation of outstanding electricity bills due to widespread non-payment by customers along the corridor.
According to NEDL, despite repeated engagements and interventions by the company, the customers refused to pay their bills.
“In July 2026, disconnection notices were issued to affected customers, giving them an opportunity to settle their outstanding bills and regularise their accounts.
“NEDL is aware that some consumers in the affected communities believe that their status as host communities to the Shiroro Hydroelectric Power Station exempts them from paying for electricity. For clarity, proximity to a power generation facility or residence in a host community does not, in itself, exempt customers from paying for the electricity they consume. All customers supplied through NEDL’s distribution network are required to pay in accordance with applicable tariffs and the prevailing regulatory and commercial framework,” it said.
The distribution company noted that persistent non-payment undermines the financial sustainability of electricity distribution and limits the company’s ability to maintain and improve service delivery.
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It added that under the circumstances, continued operation of the affected feeders has become commercially unsustainable.
Having exhausted reasonable avenues for customer engagement, sensitisation, payment recovery and amicable resolution, NEDL has proceeded with the disconnection in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements and established industry procedures.
The company urged the affected customers to settle their outstanding bills and contact the company through its designated customer service channels to regularise their accounts and confirm the requirements for restoration of supply.
NEDL also appealed to community leaders, traditional institutions, relevant stakeholders and law enforcement agencies to support efforts to promote payment compliance, protect electricity infrastructure and foster a sustainable electricity supply system.
“NEDL remains committed to providing safe, reliable and sustainable electricity services. Achieving this requires the co-operation of all stakeholders and the timely fulfilment of customers’ payment obligations,” the management reiterated.
