Tinubu Appoints New Power Adviser Who Visits NISO to Enhance Grid Stability

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Power, Mr. Lanre Babalola, visited the headquarters of the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) in Abuja over the weekend. He met with NISO’s management to discuss ways to improve grid reliability, operational efficiency and overall stability of the national electricity system.

The visit follows ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s power sector that aim to strengthen the national grid and enhance electricity supply nationwide.

Babalola, a former minister of power, led a delegation to NISO’s corporate headquarters. He was received by Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Bello Mohammed and other members of the management team.

A statement issued in Abuja after the meeting said the engagement allowed both sides to review grid operations, assess current power‑sector reforms and identify areas where government support could further enable NISO to fulfil its mandate.

The discussion focused on strengthening grid reliability, improving operational efficiency, enhancing transparency and ensuring greater system stability across the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

During the visit, Babalola stressed the importance of prudent resource management and operational discipline for a more reliable electricity network. He highlighted the need for sustained efforts to improve grid performance and reduce system disturbances, noting that a stable and resilient national grid is essential to the country’s economic growth and development.

The adviser reiterated the federal government’s commitment to backing initiatives that improve the electricity sector’s efficiency and deliver better service to consumers. He also underscored NISO’s strategic role in coordinating grid operations and driving reforms that aim to create a more stable, transparent and efficient power system.

According to Babalola, successful implementation of the reforms will require strong institutional collaboration, operational excellence and a continued focus on enhancing the reliability of electricity supply across Nigeria.

“Babalola emphasised the importance of prudent resource management, enhanced operational discipline, and sustained efforts toward improving grid performance and reducing system disturbances across the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). He reaffirmed NISO’s critical role in driving a more stable, resilient, and efficient power sector,” the statement added.

In response, Mohammed assured the presidential delegation of NISO’s commitment to advancing grid reliability and maintaining the highest operational standards in managing the national electricity network.

He said the organisation would continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders to support efforts aimed at strengthening the grid and improving overall system performance.

“Abdu Bello Mohammed assured the delegation of NISO’s unwavering commitment to advancing grid reliability and operational excellence. He also pledged the organisation’s full support towards achieving the shared objectives of a more robust and sustainable electricity supply industry,” the organisation stated.

NISO was created during the restructuring of the electricity market. It is responsible for the independent operation of the national grid and plays a central role in coordinating electricity transmission and system‑management activities across Nigeria.