Oritsegbubemi Omatseyin
Lagos — The Forum of Nigerian Electricity Regulators, FONER, has reaffirmed its commitment to a more coordinated, transparent, and responsive electricity regulatory environment, following its second meeting held in Abuja with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, and State Electricity Regulatory Commissions, SERCs.
At the meeting, regulators placed strong emphasis on the need for improved access to timely, reliable, and real-time operational data from distribution companies, particularly at the feeder level. Discussions also highlighted Band A supply performance and the importance of stronger state-level oversight to support better regulatory decisions and improved service delivery to electricity consumers.
Participants further considered how technology can support market transparency, including the possible deployment of Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled monitoring systems and stronger data infrastructure across the electricity value chain. These measures were identified as critical to enhancing visibility, performance monitoring, and accountability within the sector.
The Forum also reviewed key operational and regulatory matters affecting the market, including market settlement, sub-distribution company operations, asset delineation, and metering. Members agreed that sustained technical engagement and closer collaboration between federal and state regulators remain essential to addressing these issues effectively.
A major milestone of the meeting was the review and adoption of FONER’s Business Rules, which provide a clearer operational framework for the Forum. The Rules reinforce FONER’s role as a voluntary platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing, peer learning, and regulatory collaboration among electricity regulators across Nigeria.
By bringing NERC and SERCs together, FONER continues to provide an important platform for aligning regulatory priorities, sharing practical experiences, and developing coordinated responses to emerging challenges in Nigeria’s electricity market. The Forum stated that it will continue to promote innovation, effective oversight, and regulatory cooperation in support of a reliable, efficient, and sustainable electricity sector for consumers and stakeholders nationwide.
