Togo, Niger, and Benin owe Nigeria over ₦25 billion for electricity supplied under bilateral agreements, according to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). In its third-quarter 2025 report, NERC stated that the three countries were invoiced 18.69 million for power supplied during the period but remitted only7.125 million, leaving an outstanding balance of 11.56 million. Additionally, they had legacy debts of14.7 million, of which 7.84 million was paid, resulting in a total debt of17.8 million (approximately ₦25.36 billion at the current exchange rate).
The international customers involved are Compagnie Énergie Électrique du Togo, Société Béninoise d’Énergie Électrique of Benin, and Société Nigérienne d’Électricité of Niger. These entities purchase electricity from Nigeria’s grid-connected generation companies.
NERC’s report highlights concerns over the financial viability of cross-border energy trade, given the persistent payment defaults. The commission has previously warned that continued non-payment could threaten the stability of Nigeria’s electricity market.
Efforts to recover the outstanding debts are ongoing, with NERC emphasizing the need for timely payments to ensure the sustainability of electricity supply and the financial health of the sector.
