NISO Begins Construction of New Ultra-Modern National Control Centre

The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has commenced construction of a new ultra-modern National Control Centre in Osogbo, Osun State, in a move aimed at strengthening the management, monitoring and operation of Nigeria’s national electricity grid.

NISO flagged off the construction on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, with the groundbreaking ceremony performed on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima by his Senior Special Assistant on Legal and Compliance Matters, Alhaji Bashir Maidugu.

Maidugu described the project as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to developing critical national infrastructure under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He said the facility would contribute to socio-economic development by creating a more conducive environment for citizens and businesses.

Giving an overview of the project, the Minister of Power, Chief Joseph Tegbe, said the existing National Control Centre had been in service for about 60 years, making the construction of a modern facility necessary to meet the demands of Nigeria’s evolving power system.

Tegbe said the administration recognised the need for infrastructure capable of supporting the effective operation of the national grid as the electricity sector becomes increasingly complex.

He also called for greater collaboration and support across the power sector to enable NISO to effectively discharge its responsibilities and improve electricity reliability nationwide.

The Chairman of the NISO Board of Directors, Dr Adesegun A. Akin-Olugbade, described the project as a major milestone in the implementation of the institutional framework established by the Electricity Act 2023.

Akin-Olugbade said NISO’s responsibilities, including market administration, system operation and system planning, required advanced technology, effective governance and strong technical capacity.

He said the new control centre would provide the technological and operational foundation required for NISO to effectively perform these functions.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NISO, Engr. Abdu Bello Mohammed, FNSE, described the groundbreaking as the beginning of a new era in Nigeria’s power system operations.

Mohammed said the increasing complexity of the national electricity grid required modern technology, reliable data and skilled professionals to ensure effective management.

“As Nigeria’s electricity grid grows increasingly complex, we require modern technology, reliable data and skilled professionals to operate it effectively,” he said.

According to him, the new facility would improve grid visibility, strengthen real-time monitoring and security, and enable operators to respond to system events more quickly and precisely.

The ultra-modern National Control Centre is expected to provide an advanced operational environment for NISO as it carries out its system operation mandate and works towards a more efficient and secure national electricity grid.