Protocol.

It is my pleasure to extend heartfelt congratulations to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) as it marks twenty years since its establishment. Over the past two decades, NERC has evolved into a formidable and respected regulator, an institution distinguished by its leadership in the design and implementation of regulatory instruments, and in sector oversight and reform.

NERC itself emerged from a bold reform effort that produced the landmark Electricity Act of 2005 and transformed Nigeria’s electricity landscape. Today’s gathering, to commemorate NERC at twenty, is therefore a celebration of outstanding vision and foresight, and of the enduring power of carefully crafted and faithfully implemented policy and regulation.

We are able to gather here as sector participants and stakeholders because of the solid foundations laid by visionary pioneers. The challenge before us is therefore clear, to strengthen and build on these foundations in ways that move us closer to our shared goal of universal energy access for all Nigerians.

At the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, we have the privilege of working closely with NERC as a trusted partner in what is undoubtedly a complex and evolving environment.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated, beyond doubt, his commitment and capacity to deliver bold, impactful reforms across every facet of the Nigerian economy, including the electricity sector. Since 2023, this commitment has translated, with the active support of NERC, into tangible actions, including the passage and presidential assent of the new Electricity Act, Transfers of Electricity Market Regulatory Oversight to State Electricity Regulatory Commissions, the Presidential Metering Initiative, and the issuance of the Mini-Grid Regulations 2023 and the Eligible Customer Regulations 2024, among others.

NERC remains central to the success of these initiatives. And these are indeed demanding times for the Commission, as it adapts to a rapidly changing landscape. I am confident, however, that NERC possesses the institutional strength and expertise to meet these responsibilities while continuing to deepen public trust and confidence in a sector that touches every Nigerian home, business, and community.

As we reflect on NERC’s remarkable first two decades and the lessons learned along the way, this milestone also offers an opportunity to look ahead, toward the next phase of growth and innovation. The pace of evolution in the electricity supply industry will only accelerate, driven by the energy transition and by technological disruption. Our policies and regulations must continue to evolve in step with these changes.

One thing is certain: President Tinubu’s electricity sector reforms are here to stay, delivering greater reliability, access, and affordability for all Nigerians, under the capable oversight of NERC. On this note, let me once again congratulate the Commission on its 20th anniversary, and wish it continued success, renewed ambition, and ever-higher standards of excellence in the years ahead.

Olu Arowolo Verheijen

Special Adviser to the President on Energy

Abuja, Nigeria

30 October 2025