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Nigeria’s power sector faces persistent grid instability, with experts highlighting the urgent need for modern technological interventions to ensure grid stability. According to findings from LEADERSHIP, the recurrent grid collapses are largely due to the inability of Distribution Companies (DisCos) and the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to quickly identify faults and implement real-time interventions, underscoring the necessity for advanced technology across the sector.
Speaking on the matter, Sunday Oduntan, Executive Director of Research and Advocacy at the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED), emphasized the importance of adopting Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition-Distribution Management System (SCADA-DMS) technology. SCADA-DMS has been proven effective in real-time fault detection within the power distribution network. Currently, only Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) has implemented this system, marking a significant step as the first functional SCADA-DMS in West Africa.
Oduntan stressed that for Nigeria to achieve sustainable and reliable power distribution, all 11 DisCos, as well as TCN, must adopt SCADA-DMS, as any gaps in one part of the system impact the entire grid.
SCADA-DMS, a centralized computer system, enables remote monitoring and management of electricity network operations, helping detect and resolve faults while addressing customer complaints. This system, which was funded through the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Power Assistance Fund (CBN-PAF), was inaugurated in 2020 and continues to provide real-time data to improve service delivery.
Minister of Power Abubakar Aliyu has pledged to accelerate the deployment of SCADA systems across the country to improve grid reliability. Despite challenges such as gas constraints and pipeline sabotage affecting generation, the government is focused on technological upgrades to enhance grid management. TCN has also announced advancements in its smart grid system, which will improve grid monitoring and management for optimal service delivery.
With ongoing digitalization efforts, including the implementation of energy management systems, Nigeria is taking steps to address the long-standing grid instability that has affected millions across the country.
