KADUNA ELECTRIC NEWSLETTER DECEMBER 3RD EDITION

Kaduna Electric Unveils Brand Ambassadors to Drive Rebranding and Excellence

 By Asma'u Mohammed

The Managing Director/CEO of Kaduna Electric, Umar Abubakar Hashidu has inaugurated new Brand Ambassadors drawn amongst staff to enhance the successful of the company's rebranding exercise. 

He congratulated the new Ambassadors and highlighted their critical role in promoting Kaduna Electric brand.

“As our Brand Ambassadors, you are now the face of Kaduna Electric. You were chosen for your outstanding qualities, and we believe you have the potential to do more. Your role in rebranding and transforming Kaduna Electric cannot be overstated. The rebranding process will only be successful if we change the old narratives that have held us back over the past 10 years,” he said.

He further called on the ambassadors and staff to reflect on their contributions to the company’s success and challenged them to show professionalism and integrity while engaging with customers.

“Rebranding is vital to our growth as it determines how we are perceived by the public. Let us work together to create a new Kaduna Electric, one that delivers value to customers and fosters trust. The impact we make will define our future success,” he urged. 

Dr. Hashidu encouraged everyone to set clear goals and strive relentlessly to achieve them. “Successful people do not make excuses for failure. They assess their strengths and weaknesses, seek feedback, and work on continuous improvement. As Kaduna Electric embarks on this transformative journey, every member of staff must play their part,” he said.

Commenting at the ceremony, one of the Brand Ambassadors, Team Lead Strategy Khalid Aliyu Muhammad, praised the Management for initiating this rebranding effort.

“Let us embrace this new chapter with optimism and determination. The future of Kaduna Electric is bright. If we all commit to playing our roles diligently, we will achieve the growth and success we aspire to,” he stated.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Head Corporate Communications, Abdulazeez Abdullahi, emphasized the crucial role of the Brand Ambassadors in driving customer sensitization. He urged them to use all forms of communication verbal, non-verbal, one-on-one interactions, or engagements through community and religious/traditional leaders to promote Kaduna Electric’s services. 

He further encouraged all staff to cooperate with the ambassadors in their efforts to elevate the company.

The responsibilities of the Brand Ambassadors include brand representation, serve as public face of Kaduna Electric, maintaining consistency, engaging on social media, interacting with customers, managing feedback, supporting employee engagement, overseeing events, identifying trends, and upholding reputation management, Abdulazeez stated.

Management and Labor Unions Pledge Collaboration for Enhanced Productivity

By Asma'u Mohammed

The Management of Kaduna Electric and its two in-house Labor Unions, the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC) and the Nigerian Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), have committed to work together to foster improved productivity and industrial harmony.

This resolution was reached during the 4th Quarter Management/Union Consultative Meeting, held on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at the company’s Head Office.

In his opening remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Umar Abubakar
Hashidu, welcomed the union delegations and commended the positive relationship that has existed between the Management and labor since the company’s leadership transition. “We have maintained a good working relationship since taking over, and we hope this will continue so we can collectively enhance staff welfare,” he said.

Dr. Hashidu announced a significant investment in procuring essential working tools, including field equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and high-frequency radios, which will be distributed to staff in the coming days. The Union commended this as a noteworthy achievement.

He however, urged union leaders to ensure employees fulfil their responsibilities effectively. “Considering the challenges in our industry, we must step up and do what is right for the progress of this great company. The current market obligations present significant challenges, and we cannot afford to operate as we used to,” he emphasized.

The Deputy Managing Director, Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed, also acknowledged the unions’ collaborative spirit. “Your presence here reflects a unity of purpose and a solid understanding between the unions and the Management. This cooperation is vital, especially when making decisions that drive the company’s progress,” he noted.

Union representatives expressed satisfaction with the discussions and commended management for clarifying the company’s challenges. They also urged management to honor agreements reached during the meeting within an agreed timeframe. Key issues raised by the unions include improvements in staff welfare, resolution of pension matters, exit token, among others.

The Union also announced plans to embark on a sensitization and advocacy tour across all Area Offices (AOs) to engage members, foster grassroots consultations, and promote a brighter future. This initiative aims to boost revenue generation and encourage a better work culture. 

Management commended the Union for this proactive step and pledged its support.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to fostering a productive and harmonious working environment to achieve the company’s goals.

KADUNA ELECTRIC NEWSLETTER DECEMBER 2ND EDITION

Kaduna Electric MD/CEO Urges Staff to Rededicate Efforts During Monthly Performance Review

By Asmau Mohammed

Kaduna Electric’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Umar Abubakar Hashidu, took center stage at the company’s ongoing Monthly Performance Review, delivering a powerful presentation that emphasized the urgent need for enhanced performance across the company.

The session, attended by the Chairman Board of Directors, Alh. Aminu Abubakar Suleiman and all Management of the company provided a comprehensive analysis of the company’s performance within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). Dr. Hashidu highlighted critical areas requiring improvement, underscoring the collective responsibility of all staff members in achieving organizational goals.

 

“Our position in the NESI demands immediate and sustained improvement,” Dr. Hashidu stated. “The challenges before us are significant, but they are not insurmountable. With rededication, teamwork, and a results-driven approach, we can surpass our targets and set new benchmarks for excellence.”

 

The presentation also included a detailed review of the company's operational metrics and financial performance. While commending pockets of progress, Dr. Hashidu called for renewed commitment and innovative strategies to tackle inefficiencies.

 

Staff were encouraged to embrace a culture of accountability and prioritize customer satisfaction, which Dr. Hashidu identified as a cornerstone for the company’s growth and sustainability.

 

The session concluded with an open-floor discussion where staff shared insights and proposed actionable solutions to address the challenges highlighted.

 

Kaduna Electric remains committed in its mission to provide reliable electricity to its customers. The Management is confident that the call for improvement and rededication will stimulate staff towards achieving sustainable success.

 

Kaduna Electric Partners with National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria Kaduna State Chapter to Tackle Vandalism

By Asmau Mohammed

In a proactive move to address the persistent issue of vandalism affecting Kaduna Electric installations, a crucial meeting was held between the Regional Manager Kaduna, Mr. Mu’azu Aliyu and the leadership of the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria Kaduna State Chapter. (NASWDEN)

 

The meeting was convened in light of a recent incident where a culprit caught purchasing stolen Kaduna Electric cables, was identified as a member of the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria Kaduna State Chapter. (NASWDEN). This alarming revelation has prompted the association to take a firm stand against such acts and collaborate with Kaduna Electric to curb the menace of vandalism.

 

The Chairman of the Association Kaduna State Chapter, Alh Lawal S. Ya’u acknowledging the role of buyers in enabling vandalism, has resolved to implement stringent measures within its ranks. They announced that members would be banned from purchasing any electrical installations without verifiable proof of ownership. This step, the association believes will discourage the sale of stolen cables and dismantle the network supporting vandals.

 

In addition, the association has requested a comprehensive list of Kaduna Electric installations, which they intend to print on banners and flyers for display across their market spaces. This initiative aims to educate the public and create awareness, thereby deterring individuals from engaging in or supporting acts of vandalism.

 

Speaking at the meeting, the Regional Manager Kaduna, Mr. Mu’azu Aliyu highlighted the severe impact of vandalism on the company’s operations and its customers. He stated, “Vandalism remains one of our greatest challenges, causing significant financial losses, disrupting power supply, and leaving our customers in prolonged darkness. Anyone caught stealing or purchasing stolen cables will be brought to justice.”

 

This collaboration marks a significant step toward addressing vandalism, as both parties commit to working together to safeguard Kaduna Electric installations and ensure uninterrupted power supply for the benefit of all residents.

 

Kaduna Electric commends the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria Kaduna State Chapter. (NASWDEN) for their proactive approach and urges other stakeholders to join in the fight against vandalism.

 

Kaduna Regional Manager Conducts Seminar on Community Engagement, Accountability, Self-Discipline, and Teamwork

By Jamila Bala

As part of its commitment to employee growth and development, the Kaduna Regional office recently organized a monthly seminar for Area Managers. The seminar, facilitated by Regional Manager Mr. Muazu Aliyu, focused on the importance of community engagement, accountability, self-discipline, and teamwork in the Kaduna Electric workplace.

 

In his opening remarks, Mr. Aliyu emphasized the significance of the seminar, announcing that its key takeaways would be incorporated into the Area Managers' Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). He stressed the need for accountability, self-discipline, and teamwork in achieving organizational goals, highlighting their role in building trust, fostering collaboration, and driving success.

 

Mr. Aliyu noted that accountability is crucial in the workplace, as its absence can lead to blame, conflicts, lower quality performance, and greater frustrations. He urged employees to take ownership of their actions and motivate their teams to do the same, promoting a positive and successful work culture.

 

The seminar featured interactive sessions, group discussions, and role-playing exercises designed to illustrate the benefits of self-discipline and teamwork. Participants praised the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful.

 

The Kaduna Regional Manager has pledged to continue providing training and development opportunities for team members, enhancing their skills and knowledge. This seminar reinforces the organization's commitment to investing in its employees' growth and development.

KADUNA ELECTRIC NEWSLETTERDECEMBER 1ST EDITION

Sokoto Police Command Creates Unit to Address Vandalism

By Umar Muhammad Tambuwal

The Commissioner of Police, Sokoto State Command, Mr. Ahmed Musa, has pledged to provide adequate security for Kaduna Electric installations to ensure effective service delivery in the state.

CP Musa, who made this commitment during a courtesy visit by the Management of the Sokoto Regional Office to his office, emphasized that safeguarding lives and properties is a fundamental responsibility of the police.

"When I assumed duty recently, I created a dedicated unit to handle vandalism cases. This unit is coming onboard, and we will engage further with your Management team for collaboration," CP Musa stated.

He encouraged Kaduna Electric to report any matters beyond their control to the nearest Police Station for prompt action. "The Sokoto Police Command is committed to fighting vandalism in all its forms," he assured.

Additionally, he advised Kaduna Electric's Management to continue sensitizing their customers about the company's activities and to take steps to eliminate corrupt practices within their staff.

In his response, the Regional Manager, Mr. Zanna Ahmed Ashmi, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and called for more support in combating the vandalization of power supply infrastructure.

"Vandalism of power supply assets is a significant obstacle to ensuring a steady and adequate electricity supply. We must work together to tackle this challenge in the state," he said.

 

Sokoto Regional Manager Visits NSCDC Commandant

By Umar Muhammad Tambuwal

The Regional Manager of Kaduna Electric, Sokoto Region, Mr. Zanna Ahmed Ashimi, has sought the support of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Sokoto State Command, in ensuring the security of power installations in the state.

Mr. Zanna made the appeal during a courtesy visit, accompanied by the Regional Management team, to the NSCDC Commandant, Mr. Usman Ishaq Alfadari.

He highlighted the critical role of electricity in national development and lamented the challenges faced by the company, including vandalization of equipment and installations, energy theft, and meter bypassing. 

"Vandalism has severely impacted the quality and reliability of power supply to our customers, causing the company to lose millions. I urge your office to assist us in safeguarding our installations. Your cooperation is vital to curbing this menace," Mr. Zanna stated.

While expressing gratitude for the warm reception, he reaffirmed Kaduna Electric's commitment to working closely with the NSCDC.

In his response, The Commandant Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Sokoto State Command, Usman Ishaq Alfadari welcomed the delegation and acknowledged the challenges facing the electricity sector.

"This visit has provided us with deeper insight into your operations. Rest assured, we are committed to protecting critical infrastructure, including your installations, to support effective service delivery in the state," he said.

He announced the appointment of an officer to oversee power-related issues and pledged maximum cooperation and support for Kaduna Electric.

KADUNA ELECTRIC NEWSLETTER NOVEMBER 1ST EDITION

Kaduna Electric Hosts Kaduna State University Students On Educational Tour

By Asma'u Mohammed

In an effort to enhance educational experiences, students from the Department of Procurement and Supply Chain Management of Kaduna State University embarked on an educational excursion to the Kaduna Electric yesterday at Headquarters Kaduna, hosted by the Procurement and Human Resources departments.

Welcoming the students, Kaduna Electric’s Deputy Managing Director, Abubakar Sadiq Muhammad, in his opening remarks, encouraged the students to educate their family and friends on the importance of supporting Kaduna Electric’s current national drive focused on customer satisfaction. This includes sustaining the campaign for timely payment of electricity bills and ensuring the safety of Kaduna Electric’s infrastructure in their communities. “Energy theft is one of the major challenges hindering Kaduna Electric’s success,” he said.

He further urged the students to actively engage and extract valuable insights from the visit. “There are hundreds of people seeking employment, and we are all aware of the challenges facing our country. This course will provide valuable insights to help you focus on personal development, ultimately benefiting yourself and your loved ones. By investing in yourself, you’ll gain skills and knowledge that will enhance your prospects and improve your overall well-being,” he said.

 

Dr. Nuraddeen Usman Miko, Head of Department of Procurement and Supply Chain Management, who led the student excursion expressed sincere appreciation to the Management of Kaduna Electric for the warm welcome extended to his students during their recent excursion. He acknowledged the invaluable experience gained by the students, noting that the visit provided them with hands-on insights into logistics management within the energy sector.

Dr. Miko remarked, “This exposure has not only enhanced our students' understanding of supply chain operations in power distribution but has also prepared them for future careers in logistics. Your support has significantly enriched their learning journey.”

During the excursion, the students received lectures on how electricity is procured and distributed and were guided through the injection substation, providing them with a first-hand experience of the company’s operations.

Expressing gratitude, the students conveyed their appreciation to Kaduna Electric for providing them with this enriching opportunity. They shared that the excursion not only broadened their understanding of the industry but also contributed to a memorable and educational experience.

 

Kaduna Electric Tackles Energy Theft: Regional Manager Meets with Tudun Wada Customers

By Jamila Bala

The Regional Manager, Mr. Muazu Aliyu, met with customers from Tudun Wada Area Office at the Regional Office recently to address energy theft by NEPA II.

Mr. Aliyu confronted the NEPA II personnel during a field inspection, leading to his escape.

This leads to the customers being out of supply for 4 weeks. The house has 7 meters,3
intact and 4 tampered with.

Mr Aliyu urged customers to report  issues to nearest office and Non-attendees will risk permanent disconnection and must bring the NEPA II before he attends to them. He said

Mr. Aliyu assured customers: "We're here to serve you. Without you, there's no us."

He also urged the Technical Manager to Reconnect unaffected meters, customers who paid outstanding fines.

Meanwhile, The Commercial Manager, Abubakar Abdullahi Maisallati seeks for urgent relocation of meters to visible locations for easier access for RPU operations

The aim of the meeting was to resolve energy theft, promote customer satisfaction, and enhance revenue protection.

KADUNA ELECTRIC NEWSLETTER OCTOBER EDITION

Kaduna Electric's Regional Manager Conducts Capacity-Building Training for Commercial and Service Center Managers.

By Jamila Bala

Mr. Muazu Aliyu, Regional Manager of Kaduna Electric, recently conducted a comprehensive training session for Commercial Managers (CMs) and Service Center Managers (SCMs) at the Kaduna Regional office. The training aimed to enhance corporate behavior, billing processes, distribution, tracking, loss reduction, and understanding company targets.

During the session, Mr. Aliyu expressed concern over the SCMs' screening results, which showed only 50% alignment with company goals. He emphasized the need for improvement, warning that under performing staff would be reassessed by month-end.

 

 Mr. Aliyu stressed the importance of self-development, teamwork, and leadership in driving success. "Train yourselves, give your best, and add value. Be part of the solution, not the problem. Even marginal improvements count."

 

He urged participants to: Strive for excellence, recognizing Kaduna Electric's current ranking among Discos; Lead by example, guiding Sale Representatives (SRs) and driving collections.; Focus on daily/ bi-daily guidance for SRs to improve collections; Conduct regular field follow-ups to ensure success.

 

"As leaders, know where we are and where we're headed. Your tomorrow can't be better if you can't give your best today and not need for better when the best is possible," Mr. Aliyu assured.

 

This training seeks to boost performance, teamwork, and leadership among CMs and SCMs, driving Kaduna Electric's growth and excellence.

 

Zamfara Regional Manager Celebrates Employees, Stresses Ethics at Reward Ceremony.

By, Muhammad Abba

Malam Gaddafi Ibrahim Saminaka, the Zamfara Regional Manager of Kaduna Electric, led a Staff Reward and Recognition Ceremony at the company’s office in Gusau, where he celebrated employee achievements and emphasized the importance of workplace ethics.

 

In his speech, Malam Gaddafi praised staff for their dedication and hard work. “Our people are our greatest asset,” he said. “Today, we honor the dedication and excellence that drive our success, and we look forward to an even brighter future.”

 

However, the manager also issued a strong reminder about ethical behavior, warning that violations of the company’s values would not be tolerated. “Any breach of our ethical principles will not be accepted. This is a chance to correct any deviations and uphold the values that strengthen us,” he stated.

 

Awards were given in categories such as Best Team Player, Employee of the Year, Leadership Excellence, and Innovation in Service Delivery. One highlight was the recognition of Hajiya Asmau Mai Lafiya for her nine years of service and leadership in a male-dominated field.

Malam Gaddafi pledged continued investment in staff development to keep Kaduna Electric a leader in service delivery. He closed the event with a call for continued dedication, saying, “Together, we can achieve even greater things by upholding our values and working toward a brighter future.”

KADUNA ELECTRIC NEWSLETTER SEPTEMBER 1ST EDITION

"We are Committed to Improve Service Delivery" _AM Millennium City Assures Customers.

By Jamila Bala

The Area Manager, Millennium City Area Office in Kaduna, Mr. Aminu Bakori, has reiterated the commitment of the Area Office in particular and the Company in general to improved service delivery and timely response to customers' complaints.

Mr. Bakori made the assertion last week during the routine Customers' engagement session hosted by the Millennium City Area Office.

He called on customers of the Company in the Millennium City Area Office to reciprocate the renewed commitment of the Company by discharging their obligations as at when due.

According to Mr Bakori "the bilateral trade regulation recently introduced into the Nigerian Electricity Supply Market by the Regulator has made it imperative for both the Company and its customers to work together as partners and Stakeholders".

"If we want an improved and sustainable electricity services, we must be ready to pay our obligation to the market", he said. 

He expressed the Company's appreciation for the high turnout of customers at the session, assuring all that the Company value its customers feedback. 

In his contribution, the Customers' Engagement Manager, Mr. Sunday Yahaya emphasised the importance of energy management, urging electricity users to always switch off electrical appliances when leaving their houses or when not needed. 

Also, the HoU, Customers Service, Mrs. Fumilayo King took the session through the approved customers grievance redress mechanism where she enlightened the house on the Rights and Obligations of the customers in current dispensation.

High points of the engagement session were a presentation of the three months commercial performance of the Area Office where the urgent need for improvement in payment of electricity bills was further stressed as well as questions and answers session.

Revenue Protection Unit Is Making Significant Progress

By Asma’u Mohammed

Kaduna Electric's Revenue Protection Unit (RPU) has made considerable strides in enhancing revenue recovery and boosting revenue generation, despite facing some operational challenges.

The Head of Unit, Ibrahim Jada, disclosed that as part of their efforts to improve billing accuracy, the Unit has identified and deactivated 71 obsolete and internally tampered meters. This step ensures that the affected customers will have to obtain new meters, enabling more accurate energy consumption measurements.

According to him, legal action will be taken against repeat offenders, and aggressive follow-up efforts on defaulters are planned. Monitoring will be intensified, particularly on Band A feeders, while Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) reports will be leveraged to strategically monitor Maximum Demand customers.

He said the MD Loss Reduction team is also planning a night and weekend raids focused on high-revenue customers and Band A feeders. In addition, there are plans for internal redeployment of RPU staff to address skills gaps. 

Kaduna Electric remains committed to overcoming these challenges and improving both service delivery and revenue generation in the months ahead

 

Non-Settlement of Bills Identified as a Major Setback in Attaining Service Efficiency

By Muhammad Abba

The Zamfara Regional Manager, Malam Gadaffi Ibrahim Saminaka, warned that non-payment of electricity bills could lead to increased costs for other users, potential blackouts, brownouts, and even destabilize the entire power grid, causing widespread disruptions.

Mal. Ibrahim made the assertion last week during a customers engagement session. The session, organized by the company, aimed to build, nurture, and manage customer relationships through consistent and meaningful interactions.

Malam Saminaka emphasized the importance of such engagements as a foundation for establishing lasting connections with customers.

He encouraged customers to remain diligent in paying their electricity bills to avoid service disruptions and ensure the stability of power supply across the region.

“Zamfara Region experiences a monthly loss of over 1 billion naira due to customers failing to settle their electricity bills. This lack of bill recovery is reflected in poor collection efficiency, which impacts effective service delivery in the state,” he added.

The Regional Manager further stated that in order to ensure business success, customers must recognize their obligation to pay for electricity as a fundamental aspect of achieving organizational objectives and enabling the delivery of collective services for mutual benefit.

He continued, “Addressing electricity theft, a major contributor to the power supply crisis and its negative impacts on the value chain, is crucial in reducing revenue losses and debt accumulation within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), which in turn affects the nation's economy. Engaging in unlawful disconnection, removal, damage, tampering, or interference with the electricity supply is unlawful and detrimental.”

The Secretary of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) in Gusau, Mr. Aminu Dauda, clarified that the electricity Bands plan is a service-reflective tariff structure mandated by the NERC.

“This new tariff system is designed to ensure that individuals in Nigeria are billed for electricity according to the quality and duration of the electricity they receive. Consequently, there will be modifications in the electricity terms, services, and charges for consumers based on the quality and duration of electricity received. Understanding what a Tariff Band is and its significance is crucial. Your tariff band categorizes the number of hours of electricity you receive per day, providing valuable information to your distribution company. Knowing your tariff band helps you comprehend your monthly electricity consumption and what to anticipate in terms of daily electricity supply. Additionally, enhancing customer engagement is emphasized as a means to further improve the electricity services provided,” he concluded.

 

Sokoto Regional Office Hosts 3rd Quarter Customer Consultative/Engagement Forum

By Muhammad Umar Tambuwal

The Sokoto Regional Office of Kaduna Electric has organized Customer Consultative/Engagement Forum, bringing customers and company together to share knowledge about the company's operations processes.

The Forum provided a platform for customers to share their experiences, ask questions, and receive updates on company initiatives.

The event was attended by Ma'awuya Madawaki the Sokoto Forum Secretary, Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commissio, (NERC) with participants expressing appreciation for the open and interactive session. 

Speaking at the occasion, the Regional Manager Sokoto Regional Office, Zanna Ahmed Ashimi, represented by Area Manager, Sokoto South Area Office, Malam Habu Adamu Dawi, explained process of new service and process of acquiring meter and energy management. 

He however highlighted the importance of Energy Management, following due process in handling Electricity and also advises customers against involving unauthorized persons in connection or reconnection of power.

Mr Ashimi, noted the relevance of the Community to protect all power equipment’s placed in their community and report any suspicious movement to the nearest security agency.

"Vandalism is not only impeding the company efforts at ensuring steady power supply but are also placing additional and unnecessary burdens to customers. Please, expose the perpetrators," he admonished.

Key topics addressed included process of New service and Meter Acquisition, Electricity theft, Energy management and consequences

The Area Manager Sokoto Central, Mr Mansur Adamu in his remarks called on customer to always come to office for inquiries in regards to company operations and follow due process and also urge the customers to pay their bills as at when due, to enable the company to meet its expectations and serve its customers better.

The Regional Manager, Mr Zanna appreciated the Customers for honoring invitation and assured the customers that Kaduna Electric is committed to serve its esteemed customers better and attend to their complaints promptly.

Mr Zanna advised customers to read the New Service Form carefully before signing and taking ownership of the business between Kaduna Electric and its customers and urged them to be the company ambassadors as, problems cannot be solved without involving the customers.

Kaduna Electric Frontline September Edition

Kaduna Electric Takes Proactive Measures Against Tackling Energy Losses and Fraudulent Practices _Ag. Regional Revenue Protection Manager.

CCD: : Your competence and diligent work led to you being promoted to the position of RPU

Manager. What proactive measures can be taken to reduce technical and financial losses?

ASM: Kaduna Electric encounters challenges primarily from energy losses rather than financial mismanagement. While financial losses do happen, the main obstacle for electric utilities is dealing with energy losses. It is necessary to implement strong and customized plans to reduce these losses, as they have a direct effect on the effectiveness, financial stability, and long-term viability of the utilities.

The implementing proactive measures for revenue recovery and providing flexible payment plans, and transparent billing can also be effective. Furthermore to analyze the use of electricity for identifying irregular patterns, such as missing meters, faulty equipment, theft, unauthorized usage, or failure to disconnect certain users due to inadequate enforcement. Some utilities focus more on technology rather than management practices when setting up a solid meter-to-cash system. Monitoring and evaluating meter integrity, accurate billing, and timely collection are crucial in lowering losses. Regular assessment of these practices is essential for tracking progress in reducing loss over time.

Additionally, you can strengthen the utility team’s capabilities through thorough training, equipping them with the expertise necessary to detect, prevent address revenue losses. Gathering and documenting adequate evidence so that potential prosecution and loss recovery can be possible. Robust internal audit and internal control practices should also be activated to ensure compliance within the internal ranks of the utility. Relaxed internal control may lead to inertia in the fight against utility losses.

Encouraging community involvement is a tactic that promotes accountability and deters unlawful behaviors.

CCD:The organization's business objective was negatively impacted by the minimal enforcement efforts of certain team members. What is your plan to address this issues?

ASM: We manage cash flow by utilizing an Expenditure Prioritization Matrix (EPM) that is in direct confluence with our regulatory Key Performance Indices which are primarily hinged on enhancing service uptime and reducing downtime to the barest minimum for our esteemed customers.

CCD: Deceptive collection practices also lead to decreased revenue in collections, how this can easily be addressed?

ASM: This Fraudulent collection occurs when staff fails to collect or allocate funds owed by customer or misuses the money for personal gain. Unauthorized activities may include tampering with collection records or collaborating with customers or third parties to avoid payment obligations. Such actions can result in financial loss, cash flow problems, and legal repercussions. To prevent unauthorized use the management should monitor and review collection activities, accounts receivable, and cash transactions, comparing them with sales and billing records. Additionally, implementing effective and timely collection procedures, maintaining accurate records, and enforcing strict oversight of collection personnel are essential measures to deter fraudulent practices. 

CCD: Please give a summary of the Revenue Protection Unit and its main goals to help others comprehend its roles and Responsibilities ?

ASM: The Revenue Protection Unit (RPU) is responsible for identifying and mitigating technical and financial losses due to energy theft, meter bypass, and other forms of revenue leakage. Our main goals include:

- Detecting and preventing energy theft

- Conducting regular meter inspections and audits

- Investigating reported cases of meter tampering

- Collaborating with law enforcement to prosecute offenders

- Implementing revenue protection measures

- Educating customers on the risks and consequences of energy theft

The revenue protection teams are specifically trained to monitor and audit connections and metering points regularly to prevent any unauthorized access. Various residential, industrial, and commercial units may try to illegally tap into the system or tamper with meters. To combat this, dedicated teams should be included in the meter-to-cash processes and conduct routine inspections while also responding to any suspicious activity reported by meter readers or smart metering technology.

CCD: What are your designations and regional office ?

ASM: My designation is Ag Regional Revenue Protection Manager (Ag. RRPM), the Regional Team lead Assessment of Zamfara Regional Office. My Regional Office is also responsible for overseeing revenue protection activities in the region, covering three (3) Area Offices and serving quite a number of customers.

CCD: Who is Asma’u Sani Mailafiya and what brings out the best in her?

 ASM: I am Asma’u Sani Mailafiya, the newly appointed Acting Revenue Protection Manager (Ag. RPM) for the regional office, responsible for leading the Revenue and Protection Unit (RPU) in detecting and preventing energy theft, meter tampering, and revenue loss. With 8 years of experience in the energy industry, I possess an understanding of revenue protection principles, metering systems and energy theft detection methods. Till date I have known how to assess all type of customer’s, bill them appropriately based on NERC Regulations when caught with any infraction.