By Chimezie Godfrey
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) are exploring a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating digital transformation in Nigeria’s energy sector and strengthening the infrastructure required to drive the country’s digital economy.
The collaboration was discussed during a strategic meeting between the two organisations, where the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, underscored the critical role of reliable electricity in driving digital innovation, economic growth, and national development.
He noted that as businesses and institutions increasingly adopt digital technologies, the power sector remains central to sustaining digital progress. According to him, access to stable electricity is indispensable for the advancement of emerging technologies and the expansion of digital services.
Inuwa commended NISO for integrating technology into its operations from the outset, describing the organisation’s model as forward-looking and well-positioned to deliver long-term value to Nigeria’s electricity industry.
According to him, the rapid global growth of data centres, artificial intelligence, and other digital infrastructure has made dependable power supply a decisive factor in attracting investments and fostering innovation.
He stated that Nigeria is well placed to benefit from the expanding digital economy if it continues to improve electricity reliability while leveraging technology to promote transparency, efficiency, and accountability across the power sector.
The NITDA Director General also reiterated that the agency’s mandate goes beyond information technology regulation, noting that it is actively driving digital transformation initiatives across key sectors of the economy.
“Technology has become the backbone of modern development. By embracing digitalisation, organisations can improve operational efficiency, strengthen service delivery and unlock new opportunities for growth,” he said.
Drawing from NITDA’s experience in supporting public sector reforms, Inuwa disclosed that the agency has successfully assisted institutions such as the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council in implementing digital transformation programmes. He added that NITDA is prepared to provide similar support to NISO.
To ensure effective implementation, he proposed the establishment of a joint technical team to identify priority areas and develop a practical framework for collaboration.
Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NISO, Engr. Abdu Bello Mohammed, described the engagement as a significant milestone in the drive to build a technology-enabled electricity management system for Nigeria.
He explained that NISO was established following the unbundling of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and is responsible for system operations, electricity market administration, and power system planning, while the Transmission Service Provider manages the transmission infrastructure.
Mohammed stated that NISO occupies a pivotal position in coordinating Nigeria’s electricity network, ensuring the efficient movement of power from generation stations through the transmission network to distribution companies while maintaining grid stability.
As part of efforts to enhance operational efficiency and system visibility, he disclosed that NISO has commenced the deployment of Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled meters at strategic points across the electricity value chain.
According to him, the initiative is designed to generate real-time operational data from generation, transmission, and distribution interfaces pending the completion of the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition/Energy Management System (SCADA/EMS) project.
He noted that greater access to real-time data would improve decision-making, strengthen grid management, and enhance the overall reliability of the national electricity system.
Mohammed further expressed confidence that collaboration with NITDA would provide NISO with the technical expertise, digital insights, and institutional support required to advance its digitalisation agenda.
The proposed partnership is expected to drive innovation, improve transparency, and create a more enabling environment for investments that depend on reliable digital and energy infrastructure, further positioning Nigeria for sustainable growth in the digital age.
NITDA, NISO Forge Strategic Alliance to Power Nigeria’s Digital Economy Through Energy Sector Innovation
