…Insists on Quality Service, Warns Against Substandard Jobs, To Sanction Defaulting Contractors
By Simeon OSAJIE
First Power Electricity Distribution Company, on Thursday, met with its contractors as part of efforts to strengthen service delivery, improve customer satisfaction, and reposition its network for improved performance in 2026.
First Power, a subsidiary of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, (EEDC), is in charge of electricity distribution in Anambra State.
The meeting, which was held at the company’s corporate headquarters in Awka, Anambra State, had in attendance the firm’s Managing Director, Okechukwu Okafor; the Chief Technical Officer (CTO), Egbujuo Emeka; Head, Legal, Onyishi Linda; Head of Technical, Udechukwu Okwudili; Head of safety, Tosin Fadairo; Head of Procurement, Uzor Emmanuel and Head of Communications, Chukwuemeka Nwachukwu.
Addressing the contractors, the Managing Director reaffirmed that customer satisfaction remains central to the company’s operations, stressing that contractors must see themselves as partners in delivering value to electricity customers across Anambra State.
“Our customers are very important to us, and many of them are new businesses seeking to invest and thrive in Anambra State. We must support them, not frustrate them, in line with the vision of the Anambra State Government led by Prof Charles Soludo. We continue to receive complaints of exploitation and poor service, and we will not allow this to continue,” he said.
He emphasised that while contractors are critical stakeholders in First Power’s operational and value chain, the company would insist on professionalism, integrity, and quality service delivery.
“Your activities are integral to our network, which is why we have gathered here, to chart a path forward for the benefit of our company, our customers, and you, our contractors,” the Managing Director added.
He further disclosed that First Power would publish the names, company details, and addresses of qualified and approved contractors on the company’s website to ensure easier access for customers. However, he warned contractors not to betray the trust reposed in them by the company, stressing that only quality projects would be accepted.
Okafor revealed that a Code of Conduct for Contractors would be introduced to promote accountability, professionalism, and compliance with company standards.
On project quality, he cautioned against the use of substandard materials, particularly electricity poles, noting that First Power would no longer tolerate practices that endanger its network and customers.
“We have registered pole vendors, and contractors must source materials only from approved vendors. The use of substandard poles that compromise our network and put lives at risk will no longer be tolerated,” he said.
He added that the company is embarking on a massive cleansing and restructuring of the system, urging contractors to align with the new operational direction as partners in progress.
On corruption, the Managing Director issued a firm warning, stating that bribery in any form would not be condoned, adding, “It is no longer business as usual. Any contractor found bribing our staff in the course of executing a project will be suspended for one year. Contractors are encouraged to report any staff who demands bribes, but if we discover that a bribe was paid, sanctions will apply,” he warned.
He also announced the launch of a massive metering project across Anambra State, noting that the metering rollout will commence in three pilot districts, Awka, Onitsha, and Nnewi, before being expanded to other districts across the state.
Earlier, the Head of Safety took contractors through safety requirements, including right-of-way considerations and construction specifications across the State, reiterating that defaulters would be penalised.
The Chief Technical Officer (CTO) also cautioned contractors against executing substandard projects, particularly poor grounding and unsafe installations.
“We must not execute jobs that can endanger lives. Channel irons that are not properly earthed and other substandard practices will not be tolerated. Such projects will not be commissioned,” the CTO stated.
The meeting also provided a platform for contractors to seek clarifications on operational and technical issues, with members of the management team offering guidance and solutions.
Speaking on behalf of the contractors, Engr. Tony Akwe commended the ongoing restructuring under the First Power management and pledged the contractors’ cooperation.
“We commend the ongoing reforms and assure management of our full cooperation as partners committed to improving electricity service delivery in Anambra State,” he said.