The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has disclosed that 21 states are yet to assume regulatory control of their electricity markets nearly three years after the Electricity Act 2023.
According to the commission, only 15 states—including Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, and Enugu, have completed the transition to independent electricity regulation.
The reform allows states to oversee electricity generation, distribution, and tariffs within their jurisdictions after meeting legal requirements.
However, states such as Rivers, Kano, Kaduna, and Kwara are yet to complete the process, raising concerns among industry stakeholders about delays in achieving the benefits of decentralisation.
Experts warn that slow adoption could hinder investment in off-grid solutions, limit improvements in power supply, and delay economic growth tied to energy access.
NERC noted that states that have transitioned are expected to drive local market development, attract private investment, and improve service delivery through tailored policies.
