The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has officially granted Niger State the authority to regulate its electricity market, making it the ninth state to receive such a mandate.
The move, which was formalized through a directive on Friday, has empowered the newly formed Niger State Electricity Regulatory Commission (NSERC) to oversee the electricity sector within the state.
This decision is in line with the provisions of the amended Constitution of Nigeria and the Electricity Act of 2023.
Niger’s regulatory independence follows a growing trend, as the state joins other states like Imo, Enugu, and Oyo in assuming control over their intra-state energy markets.
NERC’s order transfers regulatory oversight from the national commission to the state level while maintaining NERC’s role as the overarching body for inter-state and international electricity operations.
The directive also mandates Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc (AEDC) and Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company Plc (IBEDC) to establish subsidiaries to manage intra-state electricity distribution in Niger, with full compliance required by July 2025.
Both subsidiaries must obtain licenses from NSERC after incorporating within the next two months.
This historic decision is expected to enhance local control and governance over electricity distribution, marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s energy regulatory framework.

The Niger State Commissioner for Land and Survey, Barrister Maurice Magaji, has clarified his presence in court over a contentious land dispute involving the state government and some communities in Gurara Local Government Area.
Magaji stated that his appearance was to support the government’s legal team and strengthen the ministry’s defence.
The case, brought before High Court No. 2 presided over by Justice Mikailu, was filed by eight aggrieved members of the Gurara community, alleging forceful acquisition of their land for a government agricultural program. Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago and Commissioner Magaji were listed as first and second defendants, respectively.
Magaji emphasized that his participation in the proceedings was driven by a shortage of lawyers handling cases for the ministry. He said his presence would also encourage the legal team and demonstrate a commitment to resolving disputes swiftly.
“Today, I appeared in court to advocate for the state on this matter of land acquisition. My appearance is not just because of the limited number of lawyers we have but also to boost the morale of our legal team and ensure that cases are handled with the utmost commitment,” he explained.
He added that his proactive involvement reflects his determination to expedite pending legal matters, many of which have been unresolved for years. Magaji assured that he would continue to personally appear in court whenever necessary to safeguard government interests and deliver effective governance.
“This will not be a one-time occurrence. As a lawyer, I will continue to appear in court when necessary, defending the government and ensuring that we meet the expectations of our people,” he said.

Magaji’s commitment marks a shift toward more hands-on governance, signaling efforts to address lingering legal disputes and promote transparency in the handling of land matters

By Our Correspondent, Minna

Niger State Governor, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Umaru Bago, has showered glowing tributes on the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, as he marks his 43rd birthday, describing him as a vibrant and visionary leader.

In a heartfelt message conveyed through his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, Governor Bago praised Sarkindaji’s exemplary leadership, applauding his ability to steer the 10th Assembly with unity and purpose.

The Governor lauded the Speaker’s passion, commitment, and purposeful drive in ensuring the Assembly remains a bastion of effective legislation. He highlighted Sarkindaji’s talent for mobilizing lawmakers to craft impactful laws that complement the executive’s New Niger Agenda.

Bago commended the Speaker’s ability to foster harmony between the Executive and Legislative arms, pledging to further deepen the collaboration to fast-track development across the state.

Expressing gratitude to God for Sarkindaji’s life and service, the Governor prayed for divine blessings, wisdom, and vitality to empower the Speaker to sustain his legacy of purposeful leadership and legislative excellence.

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