EERC, ICEED Convene Stakeholders to Advance Electricity Price Reforms and Sub-National Regulation

On June 4, 2026, the International Centre for Energy, Environment and Development International Centre for Energy, Environment and Development (ICEED), in partnership with EERC and with support from the UK FCDO under the PACE programme, convened policymakers, regulators, electricity distribution companies, development partners, academics, and media representatives at Landmark Nike Lake Resort, Enugu, for a stakeholder workshop on electricity pricing and sub-national regulation.
The forum focused on state-level electricity tariff reforms, subsidy management, social protection mechanisms, and the role of sub-national regulators.
In his opening remarks, EERC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Chijioke M. Okonkwo, described electricity reform as a shared responsibility requiring coordinated action across industry players, governments, and consumers. He said sustainable electricity markets depend on cost-reflective pricing, investor confidence, and strong regulatory oversight to ensure transparency and consumer protection.
Ifeanyi Peters Ugwuoke, National Team Leader of the PACE programme, said many households and businesses still rely on self-generated power, underscoring persistent energy poverty. He urged stakeholders to address regulatory gaps, pricing distortions, infrastructure constraints, and subsidy design, adding that reliable and affordable electricity remains central to economic growth.
Delivering the keynote on behalf of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to electricity sector reform. He highlighted the enactment of the state electricity law and the establishment of the EERC, positioning Enugu as an early mover in Nigeria’s emerging sub-national electricity market framework. He called on stakeholders to work collaboratively to build competitive and efficient electricity markets capable of supporting economic transformation.
Presenting research findings, Professor Adeola Adenikinju said Nigeria’s current subsidy regime is fiscally unsustainable and disproportionately benefits higher-income households. He advocated targeted subsidies, improved foreign exchange stability, stakeholder coordination, and phased reform implementation.
EERC’s Ikenna Uche explained how government interventions and cross-subsidisation shape tariff structures across states. He identified liquidity, fairness, transparency, and social protection as critical pillars for reform.
A panel session featuring regulators from Enugu, Abia, Anambra, Imo, Bayelsa, Plateau, Kogi, and Lagos states examined the practical challenges of decentralisation, opportunities in renewable energy, and the need for inter-state collaboration.
In his closing remarks, EERC Commissioner Dr. Chuka Akunne said the reform process is a journey and urged continued dialogue. He also thanked participants for contributing to a successful workshop.
 

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