News
Power Outage: Respect Consumers’ Rights, Commission Urges DisCos …PHED Condemns Attacks On Electricity Infrastructure
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, yesterday, urged the electricity distribution companies in Nigeria to respect the rights of electricity consumers, following the recurrent power outage in the country.
Via its official Twitter handle, @fccpcnigeria, the commission said, “During this period of severe electricity shortages and palpable customer dissatisfaction, DisCos must be mindful of their commitments and respect consumers’ rights.
“See slides for highlights of consumer rights under @NERCNG Service-Based Tariff & Meter Asset Provider frameworks.”
The slides displayed by the FCCP read, “Customers shall be billed according to the hours of electricity supplied (approved band classification).
“You have a right to contest the tariff band classification you have been assigned.
“Payment for meters shall not be made if meters are not available.
“The Meter Asset Provider (MAP) shall install the meter at the premises of the customer within 10 working days of payment.’’
Similarly, the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution (PHED) Plc, has condemned the incessant destruction of its electricity facilities by motorists.
The company, therefore, appealed to the general public to help protect critical electricity infrastructures by reporting activities of persons and corporate organisations whose actions were detrimental to the stable power supply in the region.
The utility said the appeal became necessary following the destruction of its electrical installations in Onne by three freight haulage trucks conveying goods from the Port Terminal.
According to a statement made available to newsmen, this incident occurred, on March 29, 2022 on their way to Enugu State en route Igbo Etche.
The company alleged that preliminary investigation revealed that the three haulage vehicles belonged to Gosconsa Nigeria Limited.
The statement further notes that “it is quite regrettable that Gosconsa Nigeria Limited has irresponsibly destroyed electrical assets worth millions of naira in a bid to escape laid down procedures, yet provided military escort for their haulage. Unbelievably, the company claimed to have obtained a haulage permit from sources unknown to PHED”.
Consequently, the matter has since been reported to the police, the freight trucks impounded are under-going investigation.
“The Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution is using this opportunity to call on the general public to help protect critical electricity infrastructures by ensuring that activities of persons and corporate organisations whose actions are detrimental to the stable power supply are brought to the knowledge of the relevant authorities”, the statement added.
The 2025 annual general meeting (AGM) and conference of the Rivers/Bayelsa states chapter of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has come to a close with a strong call for both states to drive the blue economy.
The communique just issued after the AGM pointed to what it called emerging prospects in fish processing, seaweed cultivation, ship repair, and marine technology.
The communique which also mentioned human capital gaps that must be filled through technical and vocational training that are aligned with modern industrial needs, said the blue economy represents a viable pathway for Nigeria’s industrialisation.
It said MAN and Arican Marine Environment Sustainability Initiative (AFMESI) have the capacity to unlock Nigeria’s blue economy sustainably and inclusively, but said the region required dedicated infrastructure upgrades, including roads, waterways, and power.
The communique was signed by Vincent Okuku (Chairman of Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch); Michael Nosa Agana (Branch Vice Chairman/Chairman AGM planning Committee); and Chibuzor Eze (Executive Secretary, Rivers/Bayelsa States Branch).
The resolutions said the future of the Niger Delta economy lies in diversification rather than dependence on extractive industries. “Technology and innovation, value addition and local processing, strategic infrastructure, and a skilled workforce are essential pillars for the future of manufacturing in the region.
“Governments in the region must intensify support for manufacturing activities. Various forms of collaboration across sectors should be actively encouraged.”
It specifically advised Bayelsa and Rivers States to fully develop and harness the blue economy as strategic gateways for sustainable growth; and called for cross-border partnerships with neighbouring states to enhance trade, security, and environmental management.”
The Rivers/Bayelsa States branch of MAN held its first (41st) AGM outside Port Harcourt for the first time, hosted by Bayelsa State Government at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, with the theme: ‘Trade, Technology, and the Future of Manufacturing in the Niger Delta.’
In his welcome address, the chairman of the branch, Okuku, commended the Bayelsa State Government under the leadership of Gov Douye Diri for its efforts in industrial development, investment promotion, and strong partnership with the private sector.
He also acknowledged the Rivers State Government for its commitment to rehabilitating industrial clusters, improving access roads, and delivering key infrastructure.
He, however, expressed concern over persistent challenges such as high energy costs, unreliable electricity supply, weak transport systems, rising logistics expenses, multiple taxes and levies, inconsistent regulatory frameworks, and pressure from host communities, which continue to hinder manufacturing growth in both states.
The President of MAN, Francis Meshioye, noted that the Niger Delta, with its abundant resources and strategic location, holds vast potential for industrial expansion. He called for policy frameworks that promote local manufacturing, enhance trade, and attract investments to the region.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, represented by Wasa Festus, Director of Community Development and Education. Another goodwill message was also presented by the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Ebieri Jones.
In his remarks, Gov Diri praised MAN for its contributions to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, noting its resilience, innovation, and strategic role in national development. He stated that the conference theme aligns with his administration’s mantra of “Assured Prosperity.”
Gov Diri offered 24-hour service to manufacturers wishing to relocate to the state, and highlighted the State’s ongoing transformation through deliberate investment in infrastructure, security, and human capital aimed at positioning Bayelsa State as a hub for industrial growth, particularly in the blue economy, agriculture, and manufacturing.
He further noted that hosting the 41st AGM fulfilled a long-desired aspiration of the State following the successful 2024 MAN event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He officially declared the exhibition open.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has alerted the public to a fraudulent message circulating online, claiming that the NELFUND Student Loan Registration Portal is open.
The message directs applicants to a third-party link (http://gvly.xyz/Nelfund-Student-Loan, which NELFUND confirms is unauthorised and fraudulent.
In a post obtained from its X handle, yesterday, NELFUND urged students and the general public not to click on the link or provide any personal information, emphasising that the official loan registration portal is only accessible through the Fund’s verified channels.
The agency reminded applicants to exercise caution online and to report any suspicious links or communications claiming to be from NELFUND.
“Applicants are encouraged to always verify official announcements via NELFUND’s official website and social media channels,” NELFUND said.
This advisory comes as part of NELFUND’s ongoing efforts to safeguard students and ensure the integrity of the student loan application process.
-
Business5 days agoKeyamo Lists Aviation Investment Opportunities For Investors
-
Rivers5 days ago
New Year Festival: Dokubo Urges Citizens’ Reorientation In Cultural Values
-
Sports5 days ago
Corruption, Impunity Bane Of Nigerian Football – Dalung
-
Ict/Telecom5 days ago
Expert Tasks Nigerians On AI
-
Business5 days agoVDM, Mr Jollof’ll Face The Law – NCAA
-
Rivers5 days ago
Navy Targets Training Reforms To Boost Maritime Operations
-
Sports5 days ago
S’Eagles Coach Accuses Congo Of Voodoo After Loss
-
Ict/Telecom5 days ago
NCC Assures Safe, Accessible Digital Space