In its decisive move to eliminate estimated billing in Ondo State, the state government has entered into a strategic partnership with the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) Plc. This collaboration aims to provide over one million electricity meters to residents across the state.
The initiative, dubbed the “O’datiwa Meters Initiative,” was formalized following a high-level meeting on Monday between the Ondo State Electricity Regulatory Transition Committee and BEDC’s top management. The committee was led by its Chairman, Olatunji Ariyomo, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Energy, Johnson Alabi, while BEDC’s Managing Director/CEO, Deolu Ijose, represented the distribution company.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is expected to officially launch the distribution of the meters later this month, marking a significant milestone in the administration’s efforts to eliminate estimated billing.
During the presentation of the bilateral resolutions, Ariyomo emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating that a joint committee will be established to facilitate seamless collaboration. “This partnership with BEDC is essential to ensure every meter is properly integrated into the network,” he said.
Ariyomo also highlighted that the O’datiwa Meter Scheme, approved by the state government in July 2024, covers all three senatorial districts. The program is being supervised by the Office of the Special Adviser on Energy through the Ondo State Power Company.
“The involvement of BEDC in this initiative means that the state government’s goal to eliminate estimated billing has gained crucial support from the distribution company,” Ariyomo added. He also noted that BEDC is expected to integrate subscribers who have registered through the state government’s official portal, ensuring a smooth transition with mutually agreed pricing.
An implementation schedule has been agreed upon, with both parties aiming to resolve any outstanding issues promptly to enable the Governor to commence the meter distribution as planned.
BEDC’s Managing Director, Deolu Ijose, expressed the company’s readiness to support the state government’s efforts. He assured that BEDC is committed to working together to end estimated billing and improve electricity supply across Ondo State.
