Tinubu Seeks Senate Confirmation Of New NERC Chairman

President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Senate to confirm the appointment of Abdullahi Ramat as the chairman and chief executive officer of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

The President’s request was contained in a letter read on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, during the resumption of plenary.

The National Assembly had gone on its annual recess on July 24, allowing lawmakers to attend to constituency responsibilities and personal matters. However, the resumption date, originally set for September 23, was extended by two weeks, with plenary finally resuming on October 7, 2025.

President Tinubu had earlier on August 8 nominated Ramat for the top NERC role. Alongside him, the President also nominated Abubakar Yusuf as Commissioner for Consumer Affairs and Dr. Fouad Animashun as Commissioner for Finance and Management Services.

According to him, Abdullahi Ramat, 39, is a seasoned electrical engineer and administrator. He holds a PhD in Strategic Management and brings a wealth of experience to the power sector.

To prevent a leadership vacuum at the helm of the critical regulatory agency, the President directed Ramat to assume office in an acting capacity, pending Senate confirmation, in accordance with statutory provisions.

“President Tinubu urged the new appointees to use their knowledge and experience to discharge their responsibilities effectively and work diligently to advance the administration’s power sector vision,” the statement said.

If confirmed, Ramat will oversee the regulatory body responsible for monitoring and improving electricity generation, distribution, and consumer protection across Nigeria.