The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has officially launched a new initiative called the Forum of Nigerian Electricity Regulators (FONER), aimed at enhancing the coordination and effectiveness of electricity regulation throughout Nigeria.
During a quarterly regulatory meeting with State Electricity Regulators (SERs) held in Lagos, NERC Chairman Dr. Musiliu Oseni characterized this move as a significant advancement in Nigeria's shift towards a multi-tier electricity market.
In his speech at the inauguration, Oseni stressed the necessity for increased collaboration to close regulatory gaps in the sector.
He stated that FONER will play a crucial role in achieving vital regulatory goals, including facilitating dialogue between NERC and the states, promoting unified strategies for tariff determination, enhancing market operations, consumer protection, and aiding capacity-building through shared learning experiences.
Moreover, the forum is designed to act as a consultative body that will support reforms in the electricity market while fostering transparency, accountability, and establishing national regulatory standards.
"Electricity serves as the vital force for economic development and prosperity. However, our industry faces numerous challenges that necessitate effective coordination and collaboration among industry leaders," Oseni remarked.
He continued, indicating that while regulators are commonly viewed as the governing bodies of the industry, their role extends beyond that to being catalysts for innovation, investment growth, consumer protection, and the upholding of public interest.
Oseni further explained that the formation of this forum is intended to foster better collaboration between federal and state electricity regulators, ensure uniform regulatory frameworks, safeguard consumer interests, stimulate investment, and enhance the technical and institutional capabilities of electricity regulators nationwide.
In September 2025, a Technical Working Group (TWG) was established, comprising participants from NERC and SERCs, with the Secretary of the Commission serving as the Ex-Officio Secretary.
The event also marked the signing and introduction of the FONER Charter, alongside the appointment of its leadership team. Dr. Musiliu Oseni will serve as Chairman, with Chijioke Okonkwo from the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ESERC) acting as Vice Chairman, and Aisha Mahmud, NERC Commissioner for the Stakeholder Management Division, serving as Secretary.
NERC emphasized that the ongoing quarterly regulatory meetings provide a valuable platform for exchanging ideas, bolstering collaboration, and catalyzing improvements within Nigeria's electricity supply landscape. The ultimate aim remains to broaden access to dependable electricity services for Nigerians.
"Challenges in our sector are often viewed through a narrow lens—whether it’s generation, transmission, or distribution. This oversimplification can be misleading," Oseni noted.
He insisted that the primary concern lies within the electricity market itself, questioning not just the capacity for power generation but rather how to ensure sustainable market operations. Addressing this crucial question is essential for tackling the prevalent challenges within the industry.
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