NERC reaffirms commitment to consumer protection, power sector reforms

.. celebrates 20th Anniversary

Ahead of the commemoration of its 20th Anniversary, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has expressed commitment towards the protection of consumers and promotion of investment, while ensuring a level playing field in the Nigerian electricity sector.

According to the NERC’s Vice Chairman, Dr Musiliu Oseni, the regulatory body would remain committed to driving reforms that deliver tangible value to Nigerians.

The commemoration of NERC’s 20th Anniversary, the vice chairman said, marked two decades of dedicated service in regulating and shaping the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

The anniversary commemoration, he said in a statement signed by NERC’s management reflected on the commission’s remarkable journey, from the early challenges of its establishment, through the regulation of the unbundled power sector, the privatisation of key assets in the value chain, and the oversight of the Nigerian Electricity Market from the post-privatisation and Interim Market stages to the Transition Electricity Market, among other milestones.

Established on 31st October 2005 under the Electric Power Sector Reform Act (EPSRA) 2005—now replaced by the Electricity Act 2023—NERC has played a pivotal role in steering the evolution of Nigeria’s electricity market.

Over the past twenty years, the management noted that the commission has championed reforms that foster transparency, accountability, consumer protection, and sustainable growth across the sector.

“This 20th Anniversary is not just a milestone, it’s a reaffirmation of our mandate to protect consumers, promote investment, and ensure a level playing field in Nigeria’s electricity sector.

“We remain committed to driving reforms that deliver tangible value to Nigerians,” Oseni said.

To mark this milestone, the management said it would involve hosting of a series of events and activities aimed at showcasing its achievements, engaging stakeholders, and setting a forward-looking agenda for the future of electricity in Nigeria.

“Stakeholders from government, industry, development partners, and consumer advocacy groups will convene to reflect on the sector’s progress, share insights, and renew their commitment to building a reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity supply industry,” the statement read.

“Highlights of the celebration will include: Technical session featuring panel discussions by eminent personalities in the power sector; health and wellness session; debate contest on energy-saving practices for secondary school students; and a commemorative dinner to honour pioneer and deceased members of staff, as well as past chairmen and commissioners

“These activities are designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and public engagement in the sector.

“As NERC looks ahead to the next 20 years, the Commission remains steadfast in its mission to regulate the electricity supply industry in the public interest, balancing the needs of consumers and operators while supporting Nigeria’s energy transition,” the statement read.

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