Tinubu Appoints Abubakar Yusuf as NERC Commissioner Despite Reported Competency Concerns

Tinubu Appoints Abubakar Yusuf as NERC Commissioner

President Bola Tinubu’s appointment of Abubakar Yusuf as a NERC Commissioner sparks debate after reports claim he previously failed a key competency test.

Controversy Trails Tinubu’s Appointment of NERC Commissioner

President Bola Tinubu’s administration has come under scrutiny following the appointment of Abubakar Yusuf as a Commissioner at the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

According to a report by Sahara Reporters, the decision has raised eyebrows within Nigeria’s power industry, with critics alleging that Yusuf had previously been rated “incompetent” by the same regulatory body during an internal evaluation process.

Yusuf Reportedly Failed NERC’s Competency Assessment

Multiple industry sources told Sahara Reporters that Yusuf earlier appeared before NERC’s Know-Your-Licensee (KYL) interview panel, a standard evaluation used to assess candidates’ knowledge of the power sector, including regulation, tariffs, and consumer protection.

The panel—comprising NERC’s Chairman and Commissioners—was said to have found Yusuf’s responses inadequate, particularly on technical and policy questions relating to:

One source reportedly disclosed that “the panel found him unqualified to occupy the role due to his inability to respond to key regulatory questions.”

Reappointment Sparks Political Debate

Despite that assessment, the Tinubu administration has now appointed Yusuf as one of the Commissioners at NERC, a role regarded as central to decision-making in Nigeria’s power industry.

Industry insiders view the move as politically influenced rather than merit-based, claiming it may be linked to efforts to consolidate political support in Kano State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

One source expressed concern, saying:

“It’s disheartening to see appointments based on politics rather than competence. This could undermine Nigeria’s progress in stabilizing the power sector.”

You can learn more about NERC’s official structure on the NERC website.

Nigeria’s Electricity Sector Faces Mounting Challenges

The Nigerian electricity sector continues to grapple with systemic challenges, including operational inefficiencies, workforce instability, and low revenue recovery.

In a related report, Sahara Reporters revealed that the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) recently laid off over 800 employees as part of an internal restructuring process.

Key Details of AEDC’s Retrenchment Exercise

The retrenchment began on November 5, 2025.
Initial plans targeted 1,800 staff cuts, later reduced to 800 after union negotiations.
The process was described as an “ongoing rightsizing initiative.”
The disengagement letters were signed by Adeniyi Adejola, AEDC’s Chief Human Resources Officer.

AEDC, which supplies power to the Federal Capital Territory, Kogi, Niger, and Nasarawa States, has been facing rising operational costs and unpaid consumer debts.

Analysts have warned that such layoffs could signal deeper structural weaknesses within Nigeria’s power sector, potentially affecting service delivery and regulatory stability.

For background on AEDC’s operations, visit AEDC’s official site.

Meritocracy and Governance Concerns

Observers argue that the reported appointment of Yusuf despite earlier test failures reflects a larger governance challenge — the prioritization of political loyalty over technical expertise.

Critics believe that unless appointments within regulatory agencies like NERC are anchored on competence, Nigeria risks continued setbacks in achieving stable and affordable electricity for its citizens.

“If this pattern continues,” one industry analyst noted, “Nigeria’s power sector reform goals could remain out of reach.”

Conclusion: Need for Transparent, Merit-Based Appointments

The controversy surrounding Abubakar Yusuf’s appointment underscores the urgent need for transparency and meritocracy in public sector leadership.
As Nigeria seeks to attract investment and improve electricity access, technical expertise should remain a top priority for national development.

Key Takeaways

Abubakar Yusuf was reportedly found incompetent in a previous NERC KYL assessment.
The Tinubu administration has now appointed him as NERC Commissioner.
The move has sparked political and ethical debate within the power industry.
The electricity sector continues to face layoffs, inefficiency, and financial strain.

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