By SUNDAY ABBA, Abuja
As a major step in Nigeria’s transition to a multi-level electricity market with improved regulation to boost service delivery, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has inaugurated a new forum aimed at enhancing coordination and effectiveness in electricity regulation across Nigeria.
Speaking at the first quarter 2026 Regulatory Meeting with state electricity regulators (SERs) in Lagos, NERC Chairman, Dr Musiliu Oseni, described the initiative as a major step in Nigeria’s transition to a multi-level electricity market.
Inaugurating what is tagged, Forum of Nigerian Electricity Regulators (FONER), Dr Oseni emphasised the need for collaboration to prevent regulatory loopholes within the sector.
“We must work collaboratively to avoid regulatory arbitrage by operators. I charge all of us to carry out this mandate with the highest sense of responsibility. Pursuant to Section 230(9) of the Electricity Act 2023, I hereby declare the Forum of Nigerian Electricity Regulators duly inaugurated,” he said.
According to the statement, FONER is expected to drive key regulatory objectives, including fostering dialogue between NERC and SERs, promoting harmonised approaches in tariff setting, market operations, and consumer protection, and supporting capacity-building through peer learning.
The forum will also serve as a consultative platform for electricity market reforms while advancing transparency, accountability, and national regulatory benchmarks.
Key highlights of the meeting, according to a statement made available to journalists, included:
– Review of the fourth quarter 2025 action log.
– Signing and launch of the FONER Charter, and the inauguration of the forum’s leadership. Dr Oseni serve as Chairman, alongside Engr Chijioke Okonkwo of the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ESERC) as Vice Chairman, and Aisha Mahmud, NERC Commissioner, Stakeholder Management Division as Secretary.
“The quarterly regulatory meeting continues to serve as a platform for NERC and state regulators to exchange ideas, strengthen collaboration, and drive improvements in Nigeria’s electricity supply industry, with the ultimate goal of expanding access to reliable power for Nigerians,” the statement concluded.