Experts Warn Of Looming Regulatory Vacuum As NERC Leadership Terms Near Expiry

NIGERIA’S power regulatory system faces a potential breakdown as the tenure of NERC’s Chairman and several commissioners expires between December 2025 and February 2026. President Bola Tinubu has nominated Abdullahi Garba Ramat and two commissioners, but Senate confirmation is still pending.

Analysts say political appointments have weakened NERC over the years, despite reforms in the Electricity Act 2023. They argue that appointing experienced professionals from within the Commission would ensure stability and technical competence.

Experts also warn that delays in confirming new leadership could leave NERC legally headless, disrupting tariff reviews, licensing, consumer protection, and overall market operations. They urge the President to act quickly and prioritise merit, especially as geopolitical balance in appointments remains a concern.

Controversy surrounds Ramat’s attempted takeover of NERC before Senate confirmation, which stakeholders say undermines due process and investor confidence. While he has modernisation credentials, experts insist that only credible, sector-experienced leadership can restore trust in Nigeria’s troubled electricity industry.