CBN Pays N14.35 Billion for 263,860 Meters to End Estimated Billings

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) said it has disbursed a total sum of N14.35 billion to the Distribution Companies of Nigeria (DisCOs) for the payment of 263,860 meters under the National Mass Metering Programme (NMMP).

In November 2020, the Federal Government announced that it would make funds available for 1 million meters in the first phase of President Buhari Mass Metering Initiative at no cost to consumers.

Between November 2020 and January 2021, the Federal Government through the CBN has disbursed N14.35 billion.

However, according to the apex bank DisCOs must pay back the amount disbursed based on the previously agreed amortisation schedule.

“The facility disbursed is a loan that must be repaid by the DisCos on the basis of the previously agreed amortisation schedule. The repayment is to be deducted from payments made by consumers into the DisCos accounts with Deposit Money Banks (DMBs),” the CBN stated.

“The maximum tenor of the facility is 10 years but not exceeding 2030, while the moratorium on the principal amount is for a period not exceeding 24 months from the date of loan disbursement.”

A week ago, the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) announced it has commenced the distribution of 104,0000 free meters in Ibadan, Oyo State.

This, the IBEDC said was under the ongoing National Metering Scheme of president Muhammadu Buhari.