The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) is urging for enhanced coordination and unified regulatory standards as individual Nigerian states transition into managing their own electricity markets. This shift follows the enactment of the Electricity Act 2023, which grants states the authority to set up local regulatory commissions and manage intrastate power distribution.
Tunji Bello, the FCCPC’s Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the necessity for collaborative governance during a recent stakeholder gathering in Abuja. Attendees included representatives from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA), and various State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs). Bello emphasized that while NERC and NEMSA handle technical and industry-specific oversight, the FCCPC contributes broad consumer protection experience. He argued that regulators must prioritize proactive risk identification and information sharing over reactive dispute resolution.
As an illustration of successful cooperation, Bello pointed to the 2024 intervention regarding the removal of outdated Unistar prepaid meters, where the FCCPC worked alongside NERC to shield consumers from unfair costs and service interruptions. Anthony Essien of NERC agreed that regulatory convergence is vital to avoid inconsistent standards that could hinder investor confidence. Furthermore, Dr. Nnaemeka Ewelukwa of the Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Commission noted that while the new act decentralizes power regulation, strong inter-agency ties remain crucial to minimize administrative hurdles for businesses operating across state lines.