Tinubu Launches ‘Power Force’ To Train 5,000 Youth For Nationwide Smart Meter Rollout
Adedokun Waliyu
2 min read
President Bola Tinubu has launched Power Force, a national initiative that will train 5,000 young Nigerians to support the nationwide deployment of smart electricity meters as part of efforts to strengthen power sector reforms and create employment opportunities.
The programme will be implemented through the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development. It is designed to address the shortage of skilled personnel in electricity meter installation while creating new opportunities for young Nigerians within the country’s electricity value chain.
According to a statement issued by the Executive Secretary of the Presidential Metering Initiative, Olu Verheijen, the programme forms part of the Tinubu administration’s broader plan to improve the efficiency and financial sustainability of Nigeria’s electricity sector.
She explained that increasing the number of properly installed electricity meters would help reduce estimated billing, improve transparency in electricity charges, strengthen revenue collection and ultimately enhance service delivery across the country.
The first phase of the programme will begin in Abuja in July 2026 before being expanded to the six geopolitical zones.
Participants will undergo intensive technical training at the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN), while the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) will oversee certification and ensure compliance with industry standards.
After completing the training, successful participants will be connected with employment opportunities through electricity distribution companies, meter manufacturers, service providers and other stakeholders within the power sector.
Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described Power Force as a nationwide initiative that links opportunity with meaningful impact by creating jobs for young Nigerians while improving electricity access across the country.
The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, said the programme would help develop the skilled workforce required to transform Nigeria’s electricity industry.
According to him, a stronger electricity sector depends on skilled professionals, and Power Force represents an investment in Nigerian talent that will help power the country’s future.
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, also said the initiative demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to providing practical opportunities for young people rather than temporary support.
He stated that the programme would equip participants with practical technical skills, recognised professional certification and a direct pathway to meaningful employment while contributing to national development.
Olu Verheijen added that the initiative would also improve public confidence in Nigeria’s electricity market by expanding access to accurate metering.
She noted that when consumers pay only for the electricity they actually use, confidence in the system increases, utility revenues improve, investments become more attractive and overall service delivery is strengthened. She said Power Force would accelerate that progress by expanding the country’s metering capacity.
Applications for the first batch of participants will open on July 4, 2026, and remain open for two weeks.
