The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has formally transferred regulatory oversight of the electricity market in Gombe State to the Gombe State Electricity Regulatory Commission (GOSERC).
NERC made this known in a statement, noting that the transfer was effected through an official order issued by the Commission in line with the amended Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the provisions of the Electricity Act (EA) 2023.
The move represents another significant step in the decentralisation of Nigeria’s electricity sector following recent constitutional and legal reforms that empower states to regulate their intrastate electricity markets.
Under the Electricity Act 2023, NERC retains its role as the central regulator, with oversight responsibilities for interstate and international electricity generation, transmission, supply, trading, and system operations.
However, the Act allows States that meet stipulated requirements to establish and regulate their own intrastate electricity markets.
According to NERC, Gombe State fulfilled all conditions precedent under the law, noting that the state government formally notified the Commission of its intention to regulate its intrastate electricity market and requested the transfer of regulatory authority to the state regulator.
NERC also disclosed that it approved the request and subsequently issued a transfer order outlining key transitional arrangements.
Under the order, the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JED) is required to complete the incorporation of its subsidiary within 60 days, effective from January 7, 2026.
The newly incorporated entity is also mandated to apply for and obtain an intrastate electricity supply and distribution licence from GOSERC, in addition to complying with other regulatory directives issued by the State commission.
NERC further stipulated that all transfers and transitional arrangements outlined in the order must be fully completed by July 6, 2026.