Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) will distribute free prepaid meters to people with disabilities (PwDs) in order to promote inclusion in the power sector.
This commitment was made during a recent visit to the YEDC corporate offices in Yola by the Adamawa People Living with Disabilities and Vulnerable People Support Initiative (APLWDVSI).
The APLWDVSI expressed gratitude for YEDC’s support for individuals with disabilities and asked the company’s commitment to ensuring that the federal government’s Meter Asset Provider (MAP) initiative benefited its members.
With over seven million metering gaps in the country, most consumers receive under-estimated billing, which not only leads to frequent disconnection but also prevents consumers from receiving transparent and controlled billing.
Godiya Simon, a member of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, expressed the organization’s need for aid in purchasing meters, as the majority of their members are unable to buy them.
They also asked for priority in a variety of services, including job chances. She said, “We are grateful for the time given to us and our acceptance in YEDC. We appreciate it and we continue to pray for peaceful coexistence and cooperation between the two organizations. Thank you for partnering with us people with disabilities.”
Nuhu Liman, Chairman of the Nigerian Association of the Deaf, who was also in attendance at the conference, underlined the need of inclusivity in society.
In response, YEDC agreed to supply meters to all members of the organization once an enumeration of all members was finished.
“Inclusiveness” has gotten minimal attention in Nigeria’s electricity sector, with little recognition of disabled and vulnerable people in society. A report titled ‘Social Inclusion and Diversity in Nigeria’s Power Sector’ (August 25, 2021) by the USAID-funded project, “The Power Africa Nigeria Power Sector Program,” shows the lack of examination of diversity and social inclusion dynamics within the Nigerian Power Sector.
By collaborating with the Adamawa People Living with Disability and Vulnerable Support Initiative, YEDC hopes to bridge this gap.
Rashidah Ahmed, YEDC’s Chief Corporate Services Officer, stated, “YDC will continue to provide an inclusive work environment where everyone is valued regardless of their background and differences.”
She also stressed YEDC’s commitment to increase possibilities for persons with disabilities in society and to foster an inclusive culture in which every employee can thrive and make a difference.
This promise by YEDC represents a huge step toward a more inclusive and fair power industry in Nigeria, creating a precedent for other businesses to follow in embracing diversity and aiding underprivileged populations.
