NIEEE and NISO Forge Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Nigeria’s Power Sector

The Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (NIEEE) and the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO)—the statutory entity responsible for grid management, system operations, and market facilitation under the Electricity Act 2023—have announced a strategic partnership aimed at advancing engineering excellence, capacity building, and overall sector reliability.

During a high-level courtesy visit to NISO’s headquarters in Abuja on Friday, NIEEE President Felix Adegboye led a delegation including Vice President (ICT Engineering Section) Ms. Atinuke Owolabi, Abuja Chapter Chairman Maiyaki Ohida, and Executive Secretary Engr. Kazeem Lawal. The engagement focused on deepening collaboration between the professional body and the grid operator to address critical challenges in the power industry.

Key proposals from NIEEE included:

• Joint organization of technical workshops to enhance the skills of NISO staff and other power sector professionals.
• Opportunities for young engineers to undertake internships and practical training within NISO’s operational environment.
• Establishment of a collaborative research platform to reduce system collapses and optimize load dispatch.

In response, NISO Managing Director Abdu Mohammed welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely for closer alignment between professional institutions and industry players. He confirmed NISO’s commitment to formalizing the partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as technical collaborators.

Mohammed approved the creation of a structured internship program to provide young electrical engineers with valuable industry exposure and bolster technical competence. Additionally, he endorsed the appointment of a dedicated Desk Relationship Officer to serve as a liaison, coordinate engagements, and ensure sustained, effective collaboration between the two organizations.

This partnership aligns with broader efforts to modernize Nigeria’s power sector, enhance grid stability, build local expertise, and support sustainable development in Africa’s largest economy. Mohammed also expressed intent to attend Adegboye’s investiture as NIEEE’s 22nd President, scheduled for February 21 in Lagos.

This collaboration marks a positive step toward bridging academia, professional practice, and operational realities in Nigeria’s evolving electricity landscape.