The United Kingdom Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (UKNIAF), in collaboration with the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), has concluded a major national initiative aimed at advancing state-led electricity market reforms.
The initiative, known as the State Learning Workshop Series, focused on key aspects of electricity market development, Integrated Resource Planning (IRP), and energy modelling software, with workshops held in Lagos, Calabar, Kano, and Jos.
The series attracted participants from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), setting a strong precedent for future reforms. These workshops equipped policymakers, regulators, and stakeholders with the necessary tools to develop sustainable and investor-ready electricity markets at the state level, in alignment with the provisions of the Electricity Act 2023.
A Vision for the Future of Nigeria’s Electricity Sector
Reflecting on the importance of the initiative, Mr Chijioke Chuku, Director-Legal and Head of Power Desk at the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, stated, “Nigeria’s electricity future depends on the capacity of our states to lead with vision, clarity, and technical precision.
“Through this workshop series, we are empowering states not only with knowledge but also with the confidence to take charge of their electricity markets. The NGF is proud to partner with UKNIAF to ensure that the promise of the Electricity Act 2023 becomes a lived reality across the country.”
The workshops covered a broad range of topics essential for effective electricity market development, including:
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Legal and regulatory pathways for establishing State Electricity Markets
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Commercial models to attract private sector investment
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Integration of state plans into Nigeria’s National IRP
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Practical training on energy modelling software for accurate planning and forecasting
Building on Lessons Learned
The initiative built upon valuable lessons from UKNIAF’s work with Akwa Ibom, Enugu, and Oyo State governments—early adopters of electricity market reforms.
It also benefited from UKNIAF’s technical support to the Federal Ministry of Power, which helped draft both the National Integrated Electricity Policy and Nigeria’s first National Integrated Resource Plan, both of which were recently approved.
As Nigeria’s energy landscape becomes increasingly decentralised, the Electricity Act 2023 provides the legal framework to empower states to take a more active role in energy production and distribution.
The workshop series is a timely effort to ensure that states are not only equipped with the right technical capacity but also with the coordination needed to manage their electricity markets effectively.
A Step Toward Sustainable and Inclusive Energy Solutions
This initiative is a critical step toward creating a robust, sustainable, and inclusive energy sector in Nigeria. By empowering states to lead their own electricity market reforms, the UKNIAF and NGF partnership are laying the groundwork for a more decentralised and responsive energy system, one that can meet the growing needs of Nigeria’s diverse regions.
With the successful completion of the workshop series, stakeholders across the country are now better prepared to implement the provisions of the Electricity Act 2023, ensuring a brighter and more reliable electricity future for all Nigerians.
Sunday Michael Ogwu is a Nigerian journalist and editor of Pinnacle Daily. He is known for his work in business and economic reporting. He has held editorial roles in prominent Nigerian media outlets, where he has focused on economic policy, financial markets, and developmental issues affecting Nigeria and Africa more broadly.
