NISO REJECTS DISCOS’ PAYMENT PROPOSALS, THREATENS SANCTIONS OVER MARKET DEBTS
The Nigeria Independent System Operator, (NISO), has rejected payment proposals submitted by some Electricity Distribution Companies, DisCos, over outstanding market obligations and warned of sanctions for non-compliance.
The decision was reached at the end of a public hearing held from Tuesday, 1st to Friday, 4th September, 2026, to review DisCos’ indebtedness to the Nigerian Electricity Market and to service providers.
The hearing was conducted by a five-member committee chaired by the Executive Director, Market Operations, Engr. Edmund Eje.
The Committee expressed concern over the payment frameworks presented by some DisCos for the liquidation of their outstanding obligations, describing them as unacceptable given the magnitude and age of the debts.
It noted that the Federal Government had earlier netted off approximately 97 per cent of DisCos’ outstanding obligations for the period 2015–2020.
The Committee therefore stressed the need for the affected DisCos to take immediate steps to liquidate their remaining balances.
“The proposals presented by some DisCos fall short of what is required to address the outstanding obligations that continue to impede the effective functioning and development of the Nigerian Electricity Market,” the Committee stated.
NISO stated that it will proceed with the next steps, including the application of applicable sanctions as provided under the Market Rules, while maintaining its commitment to constructive engagement, transparency and due process.
The engagement underscores the critical importance of market discipline, compliance and accountability among market participants, as well as continued collaboration to strengthen market confidence and ensure the sustainability of the Nigerian electricity market.
