Industry leaders push for unified standards as electricity market shifts to multi-level regulation….
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission has launched a new platform designed to strengthen coordination among electricity regulators nationwide, marking a significant step in the country’s evolving power sector.
The initiative, known as the Forum of Nigerian Electricity Regulators, was officially inaugurated during the first quarter 2026 regulatory meeting with State Electricity Regulators (SERs) held in Lagos.
Speaking at the event, NERC Chairman Musiliu Oseni described the forum as a critical milestone in Nigeria’s transition toward a multi-level electricity market, where both federal and state regulators play active roles.
Closing Regulatory Gaps
Oseni stressed that stronger collaboration among regulators is essential to prevent operators from exploiting gaps in oversight.
“We must act together to eliminate regulatory loopholes and ensure operators are held to consistent standards across the board,” he said while declaring the forum officially inaugurated under the provisions of the Electricity Act 2023.
The move signals a shift toward a more coordinated regulatory environment, especially as states increasingly take on greater responsibilities in electricity management.
What FONER Aims to Achieve
The newly formed forum is expected to play a central role in shaping Nigeria’s electricity market by:
- Encouraging regular dialogue between national and state regulators
- Promoting uniform approaches to tariff setting and market operations
- Strengthening consumer protection frameworks
- Supporting capacity building through shared knowledge and peer learning
In addition, FONER will act as a consultative hub for ongoing electricity reforms, while advancing transparency, accountability, and the adoption of national regulatory standards.
Leadership and Key Milestones
The inauguration also featured the signing of the forum’s charter and the unveiling of its leadership team.
- Musiliu Oseni will serve as Chairman
- Chijioke Okonkwo of the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission takes on the role of Vice Chairman
- Aisha Mahmud will act as Secretary
These appointments are expected to steer the forum’s agenda as it begins work on aligning regulatory practices nationwide.
A New Phase for Nigeria’s Power Sector
The quarterly regulatory meeting, which brought together NERC and state regulators, continues to serve as a vital platform for policy alignment and idea exchange.
With the creation of FONER, stakeholders are optimistic that Nigeria’s electricity supply industry will benefit from improved coordination, ultimately driving better service delivery and expanding access to reliable power for millions of Nigerians.
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