FCCPC endorses Lagos electricity reforms targeting estimated billing, compulsory metering and tougher oversight of distribution companies from 2026.

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has backed new electricity market reforms by the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LASERC) aimed at ending estimated billing and improving consumer protection across the state.

In a statement, the FCCPC commended LASERC’s measures contained in the 2025 Lagos Electricity Market Report, particularly plans for the phased enforcement of compulsory metering from 2026 and the rollout of universal smart meters across Lagos.

According to the Commission, the reforms are designed to strengthen consumer protection and improve electricity market performance through tighter oversight of distribution companies, improved complaint resolution standards and sanctions against non-compliant operators.

FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, described the initiative as a major step toward improving transparency in electricity billing and restoring consumer confidence in the power sector.

“Estimated billing remains one of the leading sources of consumer complaints within Nigeria’s power sector. Measures that accelerate metering and improve billing transparency are important to consumer protection and overall market accountability,” Bello said.

He said consumers must be shielded from unfair or unverifiable billing practices, especially in situations where electricity consumption cannot be accurately measured.

“Effective metering promotes fairness within the electricity market. It supports accurate billing, reduces disputes, improves accountability, and gives consumers greater confidence in the system,” he added.

The FCCPC boss also called on other state electricity regulators and subnational governments to adopt similar reforms to speed up metering, improve service oversight and reduce disputes linked to estimated billing.

“Lagos has taken an important step towards improving consumer protection and accountability within the electricity sector. Other states implementing electricity market reforms should also prioritise transparent metering frameworks, effective complaint resolution systems, and clear service standards that strengthen consumer confidence and support better service delivery across the sector,” Bello said.

The Commission urged electricity distribution companies and other market operators to cooperate fully with metering initiatives and service quality improvement measures introduced by regulatory authorities.

FCCPC further noted that findings in the LASERC report highlighted gaps in service delivery, complaint resolution performance and electricity supply challenges affecting Lagos residents.

According to the Commission, the findings underline the need for stronger consumer safeguards, sustained infrastructure investment and continuous improvements in electricity service delivery.

FCCPC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting reforms that promote fair market practices, transparency, accountability and improved service standards in Nigeria’s electricity sector through continued collaboration with regulators and stakeholders. (AriseNews TV)

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