NERC HOLDS ACTIVITIES TO MARK 20TH ANNIVERSARY
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) reflects on two decades of milestones, challenges, and achievements that have shaped Nigeria’s power sector. Activities to mark the anniversary included a debate and quiz competition for secondary school students, a technical session on the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry, and ended with a commemorative dinner and awards ceremony.
At the NERC @ 20 technical session, industry leaders, policymakers, and experts converged to reflect on two decades of electricity regulation in Nigeria, sharing insights on milestones, challenges, and the path ahead for the power sector.
“The responsibility of a regulator extends beyond policy alignment; it demands objectivity, analytical depth, and the courage to act as an unbiased umpire,” says Dr. Musiliu Oseni, Vice Chairman of NERC.
Speaking during the Technical Sessions to mark NERC’s 20th Anniversary, he commended the 15 states that have obtained transfer orders to establish their own electricity markets; eight of which are now operational.
He, however, reminded state electricity regulators that “there must first be a utility before you can be called a regulator,” emphasizing that regulation is not populism, activism, or politics, but a discipline requiring independence and attention to detail.
He further urged state regulators to remain vigilant and avoid being in compromising positions with licensees to prevent regulatory capture.
The technical session also featured rich and constructive panel discussions reflecting on the past, present, and future of Nigeria’s power sector and the critical role NERC has played over the last two decades.
Past and present Ministers of Power, Senators, former NERC Chairmen and Commissioners, industry players, development partners, and NERC staff came together to celebrate this 20-year milestone. The day was filled with anecdotes, fond reminiscences, and candid reflections, alongside warnings about the consequences of inaction and a collective charge for creativity, innovation, and out-of-the-box thinking.
Engaging discussions and probing questions also explored the way forward for Nigeria’s power sector over the next 20 years.
