The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has introduced new guidelines requiring regular technical audits of Nigeria’s electricity transmission network.
Under the Guidelines on the Procedures for Technical Audit of the Transmission System and Network Data Validation 2026, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) and licensed Transmission Service Providers (TSPs) are required to conduct comprehensive technical audits of the country’s 330kV and 132kV transmission networks at least once every five years.
NERC disclosed the development in a Public Notice issued on Monday.
The new guidelines took effect on July 20, 2026, and were issued pursuant to relevant provisions of the Electricity Act 2023 and the Grid Code.
The regulatory framework is designed to establish a transparent, uniform and standardised process for carrying out periodic technical audits of the national transmission system.
The Commission said the framework is intended to improve the reliability, safety, security and operational efficiency of the electricity grid.
Under the guidelines, NISO is required to engage suitably qualified consultants to conduct comprehensive technical audits of the 330kV and 132kV transmission network.
The audits are expected to provide a clearer assessment of the physical and operational condition of critical transmission infrastructure.
The requirement for regular technical assessments is significant given the longstanding challenges affecting Nigeria’s electricity grid.
The transmission network plays a critical role in moving electricity from generating plants to distribution networks across the country.
Weaknesses in transmission infrastructure can therefore contribute to system instability, power outages and limitations in the amount of electricity that can be delivered to consumers.
By requiring regular technical audits, NERC is seeking to ensure that potential weaknesses are identified and addressed before they develop into more serious problems.
The network data validation component of the guidelines is also expected to improve the accuracy and reliability of information used in planning and operating the electricity system.
Accurate data is essential for making informed decisions about infrastructure investments, system expansion and grid management.
The new guidelines come as Nigeria continues to reform its electricity sector and transition towards a more decentralised electricity market.
As responsibilities within the sector evolve, reliable transmission infrastructure will remain essential to ensuring that electricity generated across the country can reach consumers efficiently.
The five-year audit requirement could therefore provide regulators and operators with a structured mechanism for monitoring the health of the transmission system.
It could also support better planning and accountability within the electricity industry.
For consumers and businesses, the ultimate objective is improved electricity reliability.
However, the effectiveness of the new framework will depend on the quality of the audits, the independence of technical assessments and the timely implementation of recommendations arising from the process.
