Precious Obogo
The Forum of Commissioners for Power and Energy (FOCPEN), has said that
more States are actively engaging with the opportunities provided under the Electricity Act and are at different stages of legislation, regulatory formation, and market design.
The Forum, said that states are not soft-pedaling on the power sector reforms as erroneously reported describing such insinuations as inaccurate and does not represent their position.
In a statement signed by, FOCPEN Chairman Commissioner of Power and Renewable Energy, Cross River State, Prince Eka Williams and Ag. Secretary Commissioner of Rural and Energy Development, Kogi State, Engr. Mohammed Ihiezue Abdulmutalib, the Forum stated that rather than withdrawing or reversing its commitment to electricity market reforms, more States are actively engaging with the opportunities provided under the Electricity Act and are at different stages of legislation, regulatory formation, and market design.
“The article suggests that subnational governments have reversed course on power sector reforms following the enactment of the Electricity Act. FOCPEN wishes to state unequivocally that this assertion is erroneous, inaccurate, and does not reflect the true position and progress of Nigeria’s States in advancing electricity market reforms.
“States across all regions are actively exploring frameworks for independent regulation, tariff orders, and market design,” the Forum stated.
While noting the importance of the electricity act, FOCPEN said that States are approaching the transition with seriousness and caution, ensuring that their frameworks are credible, bankable, and sustainable.
“Far from “backpedaling,” the momentum is growing as more States recognise the benefits of energy independence, regulatory autonomy, and consumer-focused power market reforms.
“The transformation of Nigeria’s electricity sector is a journey, not an event. FOCPEN and its member States remain fully committed to delivering on the promise of the Electricity Act, ensuring that the gains of decentralisation translate into reliable power supply, improved governance, and greater access for all Nigerians. We call on stakeholders and the media to report developments responsibly, reflecting the true progress and growing enthusiasm across Nigeria’s subnational governments,” the Forum of power commissioners explained.