Vice President Kashim Shettima has inaugurated the Board of the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO)
Limited, marking a crucial step in the federal government’s efforts to restructure and strengthen Nigeria’s electricity sector.
This move aligns with the Electricity Act 2023 and aims to create an efficient, reliable, and competitive electricity
market. The 11-member board, chaired by Dr. Adesegun Akin-Olugbade, will oversee NISO’s operational and market
independence. NISO will manage critical aspects of Nigeria’s electricity supply chain, including grid stability, system
operations, power dispatch, and market coordination.
The selection process for the board members was rigorous and transparent. The Independent Board Nomination
Committee received over 500 applications, and 51 shortlisted candidates underwent thorough vetting, including
NERC’s “Fit and Proper Test.”
Key members of the NISO board include Dr. Adesegun Akin-Olugbade (Chairman), Engr. Abdu Bello Mohammed
(Managing Director), Engr. Nafisatu Asabe Ali (Executive Director, System Operation), Engr. Shehu Abba-Aliyu
(Executive Director, System Planning), Dr. Edmund Eje (Executive Director, Market Operation), and Mr. Babajide Ibironke (Executive Director, Finance and Corporate Services).
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The Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Mr. Ayodeji Ariyo Gbeleyi, stated that NISO represents
a pivotal landmark in Nigeria’s electricity industry reform journey. The new system will ensure that the System
Operator and Market Operator function independently and transparently, fostering efficiency and boosting investor confidence.
The inauguration of NISO’s board aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to
drive prosperity and reform in Nigeria. The federal government is committed to creating a favorable business environment and promoting economic growth.
Stakeholders say the reforms signal a new era for Nigeria’s power infrastructure, characterized by transparency,
operational independence, and investor confidence. The success of NISO will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s power sector.
Despite this significant step forward, Nigeria’s power sector still faces challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and inefficient management. The government must address these issues to ensure the success of NISO and achieve its vision for the power sector.
The inauguration of NISO’s board marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s power sector reform journey. With a transparent and competitive selection process, a clear vision for the future, and a commitment to reform, Nigeria is poised to take its power sector to the next level.
