The United Kingdom Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (UKNIAF) contracted Credo Advisory to provide technical communication assistance to the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) in relation to the Federal Government of Nigeria’s electricity reform agenda. Credo’s mandate was to support NERC in communicating the sector’s upcoming electricity pricing adjustment in line with the Government’s efforts to strengthen the electricity supply industry.
STRATEGY & EXECUTION
Credo’s assistance included public engagement and sensitization, improved transparency, and the establishment of a communication framework and strategy for NERC implementation. We conducted an extensive assessment of NERC’s communication activities in addition to the public perception of the agency; this covers the review of NERC’s public communication channels and evaluating public commentary and media coverage of its activities. We designed a media engagement plan with workshops and initiatives to educate, and sensitise the media on key tariff messaging, NERC activities, and sector milestones.
Other activities executed include monitoring media coverage and public opinion on the proposed electricity price adjustment; developing a high-level communication strategy and implementation plan for the upcoming tariff review; providing strategic media advisory to ensure best practice media relations and coverage of NERC’s activities.
Credo’s Creative Studio incorporated key messaging into sensitization creatives and materials.
OUTCOME
The insights from monitoring media coverage and public opinion were used to revise NERC’s communication strategy, messaging, and interventions to engage with stakeholders. The communication plan developed guided NERC’s public consultations with electricity stakeholders in seven geopolitical locations. The social media flyers and creative content produced from Credo studio were used to address customer complaints, communicate energy-saving tips, and promote bill payment. Our developed messaging positioned NERC as an independent body in charge of regulating the electricity sector in Nigeria.
