Niger Electricity Distribution Limited (NEDL) has shut down electricity supply to communities served by the Gwada and Erena 33 kV feeders, citing widespread refusal to pay for power consumed.
The feeders, which draw power from the 132 kV Shiroro Transmission Station, were disconnected with immediate effect.
The company said the move followed a build-up of unpaid bills that persisted despite repeated engagements and interventions.
NEDL, disclosed in a public notice on Saturday that disconnection notices were issued to affected customers in July 2026, giving them time to clear their debts and regularise their accounts.
NEDL noted that some residents believe their status as host communities to the Shiroro Hydroelectric Power Station exempts them from paying for electricity.
The company dismissed this view, stating that living near a power generation facility does not waive the obligation to pay.
According to NEDL, every customer supplied through its network must pay in line with approved tariffs and the prevailing regulatory and commercial framework.
The company warned that persistent non-payment threatens the financial viability of electricity distribution and weakens its capacity to maintain and improve service.
It said continued operation of the two feeders had therefore become commercially unsustainable.
NEDL stated that it exhausted reasonable options, including customer engagement, sensitisation, payment recovery efforts and attempts at amicable resolution, before going ahead with the disconnection.
It added that the action complies with applicable regulatory requirements and established industry procedures.
Affected customers have been urged to pay their outstanding bills and reach out through the company’s designated customer service channels to regularise their accounts and learn what is required to restore supply.
NEDL also appealed to community leaders, traditional institutions, other stakeholders and law enforcement agencies to help promote payment compliance, safeguard electricity infrastructure and support a sustainable power supply system.
The company said it remains committed to safe, reliable and sustainable electricity services, but stressed that this depends on the cooperation of all stakeholders and customers meeting their payment obligations on time.
