“Tinubu Appoints Inaugural Board for Nigerian NISO Paving Way for Energy Sector Reform”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed executive and non-executive board members for the newly established Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO). This move marks a significant step in the ongoing reform of Nigeria’s power sector, aimed at enhancing efficiency and transparency in electricity transmission and distribution.

The Nigerian Independent System Operator was created as part of the Electricity Act of 2023, which sought to liberalize the electricity market and improve regulatory oversight. NISO’s primary responsibility will be managing the country’s electricity transmission grid, ensuring fair access to the grid, and maintaining grid stability. The formation of this body is seen as crucial in addressing long-standing challenges in Nigeria’s power infrastructure, including frequent outages and inadequate supply.

The newly appointed board comprises professionals with diverse backgrounds in energy, finance, and public administration, reflecting the government’s intent to bring expertise and accountability to the sector. President Tinubu expressed confidence that the new appointees would help steer the NISO towards achieving its mandate of ensuring a more reliable and efficient electricity transmission system.

The creation of NISO aligns with broader reforms aimed at decentralizing Nigeria’s electricity market, promoting private sector participation, and attracting investment. The Electricity Act of 2023 also allows states, companies, and individuals to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity, breaking the longstanding monopoly of the national grid. This shift is expected to improve service delivery and address power shortages that have long hampered economic growth.

Stakeholders have welcomed the establishment of NISO and the appointment of its board members, seeing it as a positive step towards resolving Nigeria’s chronic power issues. However, some experts have cautioned that the success of the new system will depend on transparent governance, adequate funding, and sustained political will.

As NISO begins its work, expectations are high that it will help create a more stable power supply and foster a competitive electricity market. The board members are set to commence their duties immediately, with their performance closely watched by the public and industry players alike. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether NISO can deliver on its promise to improve Nigeria’s electricity transmission and bring much-needed relief to businesses and households across the country.