The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) says it has recorded measurable improvements in grid stability and system reliability one year after its establishment under the Electricity Act 2023.
Speaking at the agency’s first anniversary event held Wednesday at its headquarters in Utako, Abuja, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer said the past year has been marked by “deliberate effort, institutional progress, and measurable impact” across Nigeria’s electricity supply industry.
He noted that stabilising the national grid has remained central to NISO’s mandate, adding that the agency has worked closely with key players in the sector to strengthen operational discipline and reduce system disturbances.
“At the core of our mandate is ensuring a stable and resilient grid,” he said. “Working closely with the Transmission Service Provider and Generation Companies, we have advanced implementation of Free Governor Mode Operation to improve frequency response.”
According to him, NISO also intensified real-time system monitoring and operational coordination, while strengthening protection systems across the grid to minimise disruptions.
The CEO disclosed that the agency developed frameworks for grid islanding to improve resilience during major disturbances and initiated targeted measures to reduce transmission losses.
Beyond operational improvements, NISO said it has enhanced its ability to monitor and manage the grid through technology-driven initiatives.
These include accelerated implementation of the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition/Energy Management System (SCADA/EMS) project and advanced deployment of telemetry systems at electricity trading points nationwide.
The agency added that it expanded the use of digital and Internet of Things (IoT)-based solutions to improve grid visibility and support real-time decision-making.
“These efforts are laying the foundation for a fully visible and data-driven grid and market operations environment,” the CEO said.
On the electricity market, NISO said it has strengthened compliance with market rules and improved coordination among participants to ensure more transparent and efficient operations.
It also reported progress in system planning, including support for the Integrated Resource Plan and submission of a revised Transmission Expansion Plan aimed at long-term sustainability.
Despite the gains, the agency acknowledged persistent challenges, including market liquidity constraints, infrastructure limitations, and compliance gaps.
“We remain mindful of ongoing challenges,” the CEO said, listing renewable energy integration constraints and grid infrastructure deficits among key concerns.
Looking ahead, he said NISO would focus on deepening grid visibility, enhancing system reliability, and improving transparency in market operations.
“Our success will be measured by three outcomes: a stable grid, a credible market, and strong investor confidence,” he added.
NISO was established to provide independent system operation, market administration, and system planning for Nigeria’s electricity supply industry as part of ongoing power sector reforms.
