Stakeholders on Tuesday in Abuja lauded the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) for its recent capacity-building workshop in Ibadan aimed at strengthening the role of non-state actors in electricity sector governance. The commendation came during a press briefing hosted by the Centre for Civil–Military Cooperation (CIMICO), following the three-day training programme held from February 26 to 28, 2026, with participation from civil societies, consumer protection groups, State Electricity Regulatory Commissions and Distribution Companies.
Speaking at the press conference, CIMICO Centre Coordinator, Adams Otakwu, PhD, mni, said the Ibadan workshop marked an important shift toward structured engagement between regulators and organised civil society under the Electricity Act 2023. He noted that the programme equipped participants with technical understanding of regulatory processes, consumer protection mechanisms and subnational market operations, which would help improve public confidence and accountability within the electricity sector. According to him, the knowledge gained would be extended to grassroots networks to broaden awareness of ongoing reforms in the power industry.
Mr. David Acheme, Director of the Community Initiative for Transparency (CIT), described the initiative as timely and necessary for building a more resilient electricity market. He said the training would enable CSOs to play a more effective role in monitoring service delivery and supporting consumer rights, while strengthening collaboration with state regulators. Acheme expressed optimism that NERC’s approach to stakeholder engagement would further enhance efficiency and transparency across the sector.
Also addressing the press, Justina Ochoche of the Civil Society Network for Energy Security said the Ibadan programme had provided practical regulatory orientation that would translate into stronger advocacy and improved public participation in energy governance. She added that civil society groups would deploy the lessons learned to educate communities and deepen understanding of electricity market reforms. The Abuja press briefing, attended by five organisations at the CIMICO Centre, was convened to highlight the outcomes of the NERC workshop and underscore the growing role of civil society in supporting inclusive and accountable energy regulation in Nigeria.
