The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) are set to collaborate on initiatives aimed at accelerating digital transformation in Nigeria’s energy sector and enhancing the infrastructure needed to drive the country’s digital economy.

During a strategic meeting between the two organisations, the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, emphasised the importance of reliable electricity as a key driver of digital innovation, economic growth and national development.

He noted that as businesses and institutions increasingly embrace digital technologies, the power sector remains fundamental to sustaining digital progress, adding that access to stable electricity is essential for the growth of emerging technologies and digital services.

Inuwa commended NISO’s commitment to embedding technology into its operations from inception, describing the organisation’s approach as a forward-looking organisation capable of delivering long-term value to the electricity industry.

According to him, the rapid expansion of data centres, artificial intelligence and other digital infrastructure globally has made dependency on power supply a critical factor for attracting investment.

He stated that Nigeria stands to benefit significantly from the growing digital economy if it continues to improve electricity reliability while deploying technology to boost transparency, efficiency and accountability across the power ecosystem.

The NITDA DG also reiterated that the agency’s role extends beyond information technology regulation, noting that NITDA is actively supporting digital transformation across multiple 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 on NITDA’s experience in supporting public sector reforms, Inuwa noted that the agency has assisted institutions such as the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council with digital transformation initiatives and is prepared to extend similar support to NISO.

To facilitate implementation, he proposed the establishment of a joint technical team to identify priority projects 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 step towards building a technology enabled electricity management system.

He explained that NISO was created following the unbundling of the Transmission Company of Nigeria and is responsible for system operations, electricity market administration and power system planning, while the Transmission Service Provider oversees the transmission infrastructure.

Mohammed said the organisation plays a central role in coordinating Nigeria’s electricity network, ensuring the efficient movement of power from generating stations through the transmission network to distribution companies while maintaining system stability.

As part of efforts to improve operational efficiency and visibility, he disclosed that NISO has begun deploying Internet of Things (IoT) enabled meters at strategic points across the electricity value chain.

The initiative, he explained, is designed to provide 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 improved access to real-time data would enhance decision-making, strengthen grid management and contribute to the overall reliability of the national electricity system.

Mohammed further expressed optimism that collaboration with NITDA would provide NISO with valuable insights and expertise to support its digitalisation agenda.

The proposed partnership is expected to enhance innovation, improve transparency and create a more enabling environment for investments that depend on reliable digital and energy infrastructure.

•PHOTO: The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, in a group photograph with the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO), Abdu Mohammed, alongside members of the management teams of both organisations during a working visit to NITDA's headquarters in Abuja.