One year after its establishment under the Electricity Act 2023, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has highlighted persistent technical and operational challenges affecting the national grid, despite notable progress in stabilisation efforts.
Speaking in Abuja, NISO Director Abdul Bello Muhammed said the agency has made deliberate strides in improving grid stability, market transparency, and system planning through strengthened governance structures, operational protocols, and advanced monitoring systems.
He noted, however, that key issues such as market liquidity constraints, inadequate grid infrastructure, compliance gaps, and difficulties in integrating renewable energy continue to hinder sector performance and investor confidence.
Muhammed also disclosed Nigeria’s readiness for regional electricity trade, citing progress in synchronisation with the West African Power Pool and ongoing interconnection projects, including the Nigeria–Benin 330kV transmission line, aimed at boosting cross-border power exchange.
Meanwhile, First Independent Power Limited has backed the Federal Government’s N3.3 trillion power sector debt settlement programme, with CEO Seyi Sobogun confirming participation and describing the initiative—and the fully subscribed N501 billion January 2026 bond issuance—as a positive step toward restoring stability and confidence in the industry.