The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) is set to deploy advanced technology to combat electricity theft, meter bypass, and other illegal practices in collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

NERC Chairman-designate Abdullahi Ramat, while awaiting Senate confirmation, stated that the commission plans to develop a mobile app for Android and iOS that will integrate the APIs of Distribution Companies (DISCOs) and the Nigerian System Operator (NISO). The app will provide NERC with real-time insights into payment channels and grid operations.

Ramat also revealed plans for a whistleblowing tool, inspired by the LURA app he pioneered at the local government level, enabling citizens to report illegal electricity practices anonymously. “We will partner with the EFCC to enforce arrests, apply name-and-shame measures, and prosecute offenders, with penalties of up to three years in prison under section 208 of the Electricity Act 2023,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of tackling electricity theft, Ramat noted that nearly 50% of generated power is lost, reducing efficiency and discouraging investment in the sector. He explained that losses from theft are partly passed on to consumers through tariffs, and curbing such practices will help reduce costs.

He also emphasized the need for full digitization of Nigeria’s power sector to optimize operations, integrate payment and monitoring systems, and stabilize the grid. Advanced technologies like AI, blockchain, and cloud computing, widely adopted in other countries, remain underutilized in Nigeria, he said, warning that failure to act could create a “digital Wild West,” undermining regulation and governance.

“For Nigeria to remain globally competitive, automation and e-governance must move beyond aspirations to concrete action,” Ramat added.