The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has launched a new national platform to align federal and state regulators, in a decisive move to close regulatory gaps and strengthen oversight in Nigeria’s evolving electricity market.

The initiative, known as the Forum of Nigerian Electricity Regulators (FONER), was unveiled at the first quarter 2026 meeting between NERC and State Electricity Regulators (SERs) in Lagos.

NERC Chairman, Musiliu Oseni, said the forum is critical to managing Nigeria’s transition to a decentralised power sector, warning that poor coordination could create loopholes for exploitation.

“As the market evolves, regulators at all levels must work in sync to avoid gaps that could undermine the objectives of the Electricity Act 2023,” Oseni said.

He explained that FONER will serve as a permanent platform for collaboration, ensuring regulatory consistency across jurisdictions and supporting the effective implementation of ongoing power sector reforms.

According to him, the forum will focus on harmonising tariff methodologies, strengthening market rules and improving consumer protection standards nationwide.

FONER will also drive capacity building among regulators through peer learning and provide a structured channel for consultation on key policy and regulatory issues.

As part of its inauguration, the forum adopted its charter and announced its pioneer leadership, with Oseni as chairman, Chijioke Okonkwo of the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission as vice chairman, and Aisha Mahmud as secretary.

Participants at the meeting also reviewed regulatory activities for the fourth quarter of 2025, highlighting ongoing efforts to enforce compliance and improve performance across the sector.

The creation of FONER signals a stronger push by regulators to stabilise Nigeria’s electricity market, enhance coordination and accelerate reforms aimed at improving power supply and expanding access.