FG launches ‘Power Force’ to train 5,000 youths, boost smart meter installation

The Federal Government has launched Power Force, a nationwide initiative to train 5,000 young Nigerians in smart electricity meter installation as part of efforts to accelerate metering, create jobs and deepen ongoing reforms in the power sector.

The programme, unveiled by President Bola Tinubu under the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI) in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, is expected to equip participants with technical skills and connect them to employment opportunities across the electricity value chain.

According to the government, the initiative is designed to address the shortage of skilled meter installers while supporting the rollout of smart meters nationwide, reducing estimated billing, improving transparency in electricity charges and strengthening revenue collection for distribution companies.

The first phase of the programme will begin in Abuja this month before expanding to the six geopolitical zones.

Participants will receive technical training from the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN), while the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) will oversee certification and compliance. Successful trainees will be linked with electricity distribution companies, meter providers and other industry employers.

Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described the initiative as a partnership that combines youth employment with improved electricity access across the country.

Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, said the programme would strengthen the power sector by investing in skilled manpower needed to drive ongoing reforms.

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, said the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to providing practical opportunities for young people through skills acquisition and employment.

Executive Secretary of the Presidential Metering Initiative, Olu Verheijen, said wider metering would improve trust in the electricity sector by ensuring customers pay only for power consumed while encouraging greater investment and better service delivery.

Applications for the first batch of trainees will open on July 4 and remain open for two weeks through the Presidential Metering Initiative portal.