Why isn't there one code for all prepaid meters?
Nigeria has around 11 electricity distribution companies (DisCos), including Ikeja Electric (IKEDC), Eko Electricity (EKEDC), Abuja Electricity (AEDC), Port Harcourt Electricity (PHED), Ibadan Electricity (IBEDC) and others, each covering a different region with its own app, website and USSD codes. Unlike telecom, where one carrier serves the whole country under one set of codes, your DisCo depends entirely on where your meter is located.
This means a USSD code that works for a friend in Lagos may not work for you in Abuja, even if you're trying to do the exact same thing. The one method that works consistently regardless of your DisCo is your bank's own app, covered below.
How do I recharge my meter through my bank app?
- Open your bank's mobile app and go to Utility Bills or Prepaid Recharge.
- Select your specific DisCo from the list (EKEDC, IKEDC, AEDC, or whichever covers your address).
- Enter your meter number and the amount, between ₦1,000 and ₦100,000 per transaction.
- Confirm the payment.
- Your token arrives by SMS, often also by email and in the app's transaction history.
- Key the token into your meter's keypad or interface unit and press Enter or OK.
This same flow works across most major Nigerian banks' apps, which is why it's the most reliable single method regardless of which DisCo covers you.
Can I recharge directly through my DisCo instead?
Yes. Most DisCos also offer their own app, website, or USSD code for direct payment. Since these vary by provider and change independently of each other, check your specific DisCo's official app or website for their current code rather than relying on a code you saw for a different DisCo or an outdated post online.
What do I do if my token doesn't load?
- Re-enter the token slowly. Commonly confused characters like 0/O and 1/I are the most frequent cause of a rejected entry.
- Confirm the meter number you paid for matches the meter you're standing in front of. A token generated for the wrong meter number simply won't work on a different meter.
- If the token is correct and still fails, contact your DisCo's customer care with your payment reference and meter number.
People also ask
Where do I find my meter number?
It's printed directly on the meter itself, and also appears on any previous purchase receipt or SMS. Don't confuse it with your DisCo customer account number, which some payment channels ask for separately.
Can I recharge a meter that isn't in my name?
Yes. Payment only needs the meter number and DisCo, not proof that the meter is registered to you, so you can top up a meter for a relative or tenant as long as you have the correct meter number.
Is there a fee to recharge a prepaid meter?
This depends on your payment channel. Some banks and third-party vendors add a small convenience fee, while others don't. Check the confirmation screen before completing payment to see any fee added.