NERC trains Lagos judges on evolving electricity market reforms

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has organised a regional seminar for judges of the Lagos State High Court to deepen their understanding of the country’s evolving electricity sector and the legal frameworks guiding ongoing reforms.

The seminar, held in Lagos, brought together judicial officers and key stakeholders in the power industry to examine emerging regulatory and legal issues arising from the transformation of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

Speaking at the event, NERC Chairman, , said the commission considered it important for judges to understand the technical and regulatory complexities of the power sector, particularly as electricity regulation becomes increasingly decentralised.

According to him, NERC has already transferred oversight of electricity markets to 16 states, marking a significant shift towards a multi-level regulatory structure.

“The objective is to ensure that My Lords are familiar with the intricacies and technical nature of the power sector. We look forward to engaging with you and sharing deeper insights into an industry that is critical to Nigeria’s economic development,” Oseni said.

Representing the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, , the Solicitor-General of Lagos State, , commended NERC for organising the seminar.

Oyenuga said the programme provided a valuable opportunity for judges to interact with industry stakeholders and gain a better appreciation of developments within the electricity sector.

He noted that such engagements would help ensure that judicial decisions continue to support ongoing reforms aimed at improving power supply and market efficiency.

Also speaking, , who represented the Chief Judge of Lagos State, , urged participants to make the most of the seminar by actively engaging with resource persons and broadening their understanding of the rapidly changing electricity landscape.

The seminar featured presentations on major developments in the electricity industry, including the transition to a decentralised electricity market and the legal and regulatory implications of the reforms.

One of the presentations, titled “Transitioning into a Decentralised Electricity Sector: Legal and Regulatory Perspectives,” was delivered by NERC Commissioner for Legal, Licensing and Compliance, .

Participants also received insights into tariff-setting mechanisms in the emerging electricity market from NERC Vice Chairman, , who presented a paper on tariff regulation in a decentralised electricity sector.

The seminar, themed “Nigeria’s Electricity Market in Transition: Law, Regulation and the Courts,” is the first in a series of regional judicial engagements planned by NERC.

According to the commission, the initiative is designed to strengthen judicial capacity and foster a shared understanding of the legal and regulatory issues shaping Nigeria’s electricity market as the sector undergoes far-reaching reforms.