The Chairman of the Kogi State Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC), Engr. Ibrahim Abdwaaris, has emphasized that trust, cooperation, and empathy remain the foundation of the Commission’s regulatory approach.
Abdwaaris stated this at a media briefing in Lokoja where he emphasized that meaningful reforms in the electricity sector cannot be achieved without strong collaboration with service providers.
He noted that the Commission’s primary objective is to gain public confidence by working closely with operators in the state to ensure clarity, transparency, and shared understanding of regulatory framework.
According to the KERC Chairman, the Commission is deliberate about involving electricity providers in its regulatory framework to ensure that policies do not undermine their operations or return on investment.
He explained that no regulation is introduced without carefully balancing the interests of both consumers and service providers, describing KERC’s role as that of a bridge-builder aimed at fostering openness, stability, and prosperity within the electricity market.
Assessing the Commission’s performance in 2025, Engr. Abdwaaris acknowledged that the year brought both achievements and challenges.
While admitting that the Commission has not attained its desired service delivery standards, he said several operational gaps have been identified and are currently under review.
He revealed that KERC has deployed performance monitoring tools such as the System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI) and System Average Interruption Frequency Index (SAIFI) to evaluate electricity supply reliability and operational efficiency, enabling daily performance assessments and corrective actions.
On consumer protection, the Chairman disclosed that KERC has established structured customer forums to address billing disputes and service complaints.
He explained that customers are encouraged to first engage service providers within stipulated timelines, after which the Commission intervenes where issues remain unresolved.
He further stated that the Commission ensures fairness and transparency in handling disputes, treating each case on its merit while remaining impartial to both consumers and operators.
Engr. Abdwaaris also highlighted landmark reforms undertaken by the Commission, including the establishment of Nigeria’s first electricity task force and special court to handle power-related offences, a move he noted is backed by the Kogi State Electricity Law.
He explained that the initiative is aimed at curbing electricity theft, protecting investors, and strengthening revenue recovery to improve infrastructure and service delivery.
Looking ahead to 2026, he assured that the Commission in reviewing its 2025 activities, is addressing identified gaps particularly in customer engagement and working with the Kogi Electricity Distribution Limited to ensure improved engagement, reliability, and service delivery across the state.
