By Joseph Obunse
The Management of First Power Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (FPEDC), has reaffirmed its commitment to efficient service delivery and improved customer relations, following a strategic Customer Engagement Forum held at King David’s Hotel, Awka.
In his opening remarks, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of FPEDC, Mr Okechukwu Okafor warmly welcomed esteemed customers, stakeholders, and participants, describing the forum as a vital platform for open dialogue. He emphasized that the session was designed to be highly interactive and solution-driven, setting the tone for a productive engagement.
A major highlight of the forum was a comprehensive presentation by the Chief Technical Officer, Dr Emeka Egbujor on the Electricity Value Chain. He explained that the electricity value chain refers to the entire process of power supply—from generation (where electricity is produced), to transmission (where it is transported across long distances), and finally to distribution (where it is delivered to homes and businesses). He noted that challenges at any stage of this chain can significantly affect the quality and stability of power supply experienced by end users.
Further presentations were delivered by key department heads.
The Head of Safety, Engr. Tosin Fadairo enlightened participants on safety standards and procedures, stressing the importance of adherence to safety guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure public protection.
The Chief Commercial Officer, Dr. Mrs Nnenna Obi spoke on the company’s commercial functions and the ASAP programme, highlighting measures aimed at improving billing efficiency, revenue collection, and overall service transparency.
On infrastructure protection, the Head of Technical, Engr Okwudili Udechukwu addressed the effects and dangers of vandalism, describing it as a major setback to power supply and a threat to national assets. He called for collective responsibility in safeguarding electricity facilities.
Also speaking, the Head of Customer Service, Mrs Obianuju Okafor provided detailed insights into payment platforms and complaint channels, encouraging customers to utilize official communication avenues for prompt resolution of issues.
The forum witnessed active participation from customers and stakeholders, who were given the opportunity to express their concerns, lodge complaints, and seek clarifications in a cordial atmosphere. Issues raised included power outages, estimated billing, metering challenges, allegations of favoritism, and cases of staff harassment and intimidation.
Responding to the customers, the FPEDC management addressed the questions extensively and reassured customers of ongoing efforts to tackle the challenges. They reiterated customers’ rights to report misconduct, urging them to adopt the principle: “See something, say something,” as a means of promoting accountability and service improvement.
Customers were further encouraged to make use of the company’s official website for all communications, with assurances that complaints and inquiries would receive prompt attention.
The event marked another step in FPEDC’s drive toward transparency, customer satisfaction, and a more responsive electricity distribution system.
Joseph is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
