The Nigerian System Operator (NISO) has announced a significant reduction in electricity transmission losses—from about 10% to 7.05%—cutting monthly losses previously estimated at up to N8 billion.
Speaking at the organisation’s first anniversary in Abuja, Managing Director Abdu Bello Mohammed said the agency is working to further reduce losses to around 5–6% in line with industry targets.
He explained that the improvements stem from efforts to strengthen system discipline and grid reliability across the power sector.
Grid Stability Measures
To enhance stability, NISO is collaborating with key players, including the Transmission Company of Nigeria, generation companies (GenCos), and distribution companies (DisCos), to enforce the “free-governor model” for power plants.
This model helps maintain grid frequency and overall system balance. While several GenCos have complied, others are yet to fully adopt the directive despite enforcement backing from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission(NERC).
IoT Metering and Real-Time Monitoring
NERC has also directed DisCos to install Internet of Things (IoT) meters on 33kV and 11kV feeders. This is aimed at improving transparency, monitoring, and efficiency across the network.
Mohammed noted that the integration of IoT systems and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) technology is already enhancing real-time data tracking across generation and transmission points.
Toward a Smarter Power Grid
Currently, Nigeria’s electricity market still relies heavily on manual processes. However, NISO plans to transition to automated systems that enable hourly settlements and real-time electricity trading.
The long-term goal, according to NISO, is to achieve full visibility of the national grid—from generation to transmission, distribution, and end users—allowing for more efficient management and improved service delivery.
These developments signal gradual progress in addressing inefficiencies within Nigeria’s power sector, even as broader challenges around generation and distribution persist.
