NERC and the Unfinished Kaduna DISCO Dance
SOStainabilityWeekly
Edited by Oke Epia, E-mail: sostainability01@gmail.com | WhatsApp: +234 8034000706
Flakes and Flaks
The recent sack of the board of Kaduna Electricity Distribution (KAEDC) Plc by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has sent ripples through Nigeria’s chequered energy sector. But questions remain about deeper consequences and accountability.
Earlier this month, the power regulator wielded the big stick on the company over a N456.5bn black hole and prolonged operational challenges. This figure comprised N415.5bn owed to the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc and N41bn to the Nigerian Independent System Operator. Non-market statutory and third-party obligations amounted to N14.26bn.
By Order No. NERC/2026/086, titled “Order on the Regulatory Intervention in Kaduna Electricity Distribution Plc Pursuant to the Electricity Act 2023,” the agency listed several reasons why it took the action. These included prolonged regulatory and market defaults, inadequate investment, and weak operational and commercial performance.
“The commission, following its inquiry and consultation undertaken with key industry stakeholders including the Bureau of Public Enterprises, finds that Kaduna Electricity Distribution Plc is in a grave situation characterised by prolonged regulatory and market default, inadequate investment, weak operational and commercial performance, insufficient assets relative to liabilities, and inability to present a credible pathway to sustainable recovery,” the regulator said. It noted that the financial difficulties continued in spite of some N6.58bn regulatory derogations granted between January 2024 and May 2026 and Federal Government intervention support of N53.79bn since July 2018.
The question of accountability should now be answered. Who are those directly or indirectly responsible for these losses and operational failures? What is being done to recover investors’ funds? Can Nigeria afford a slap on the wrist on this matter? What is the EFCC doing on this matter?
Spotlight
Taraba State Unveils Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2026
The Taraba State Government has officially launched the Taraba State Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2026, marking a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and inclusive green development.
The launch event, held in Jalingo on August 21, 2026, was graced by His Excellency Dr. Agbu Kefas, Executive Governor of Taraba State accompanied by the Hon. Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof. Emmanuel Oladipo, and Dr. Eugene Itua, CEO of Natural Eco Capital and Lead Expert for the development of the Policy and Action Plan. The ceremony also drew the participation of distinguished guests, community representatives, investors, and government functionaries.
The event underscored the administration’s dedication to implementing strategic climate actions that safeguard vulnerable communities, strengthen environmental governance, and promote sustainable economic growth across the state.
The newly launched Policy and Action Plan provides a comprehensive framework for climate adaptation, mitigation, and green economic transformation—positioning Taraba State as a forward-looking leader in climate governance within Nigeria.
His Excellency Dr. Agbu Kefas, Executive Governor of Taraba State, presenting a Certificate of Appreciation to Dr. Eugene Itua, CEO of Natural Eco Capital, for leading the development of the Taraba State Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2026
His Excellency Dr. Agbu Kefas, Executive Governor of Taraba State (middle), alongside the Hon. Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change (to his left) and Dr. Eugene Itua, CEO of Natural Eco Capital and Lead Expert for the development of the Taraba State Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2026, at the official launch held in Jalingo on August 21, 2026.
