The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has begun the second phase of its capacity development programme for system operators. This initiative aims to enhance technical competence and operational readiness for the safe and reliable management of Nigeria's national electricity grid. The programme was declared open by NISO's Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Bello Mohammed, in Abuja.

Mohammed emphasized that continuous training is crucial for system operators to manage the increasing complexities of the power system effectively. He highlighted that NISO's role as an independent system operator demands technical competence, sound judgment, discipline, teamwork, and a strong commitment to safety. The programme is designed to foster a common operational culture based on professionalism, integrity, neutrality, reliability, and continuous improvement.

The programme aims to deepen participants' knowledge of the grid code, a fundamental standard that guides the responsibilities of system operators. Mohammed urged participants to engage fully with the programme to enhance their understanding of the grid code and its applications. This, he believes, will contribute to the safe and reliable management of the national electricity grid.

Nafisatu Ali, Executive Director of System Operations at NISO, highlighted the critical role of system operators in the independent and transparent operation, monitoring, coordination, and management of the national grid. Their responsibilities include real-time grid management, coordination of generation and power flows, load allocation, outage management, emergency response, and maintenance planning. Ali's remarks underscored the importance of the programme in enhancing these skills.

The Executive Director, Finance and Corporate Services, Babajide Ibironke, expressed confidence that the programme would deliver measurable value to both participants and NISO. He noted that participants would be required to share the knowledge acquired with their respective teams, in line with the organisation's knowledge-sharing policy. This approach aims to cascade the benefits of the programme across the organisation.

The capacity development programme is part of NISO's efforts to strengthen the technical capabilities of system operators. By enhancing their skills and knowledge, NISO aims to improve the reliability and efficiency of the national electricity grid. The programme's impact is expected to be felt across the Nigerian power sector, contributing to safer and more reliable electricity delivery.

The second phase of the programme will focus on practical applications and case studies, allowing participants to apply their knowledge in simulated scenarios. This hands-on approach is designed to equip system operators with the skills needed to respond effectively to changing operational conditions and manage the complexities of the power system. Key outcomes of the programme include enhanced technical competence and improved operational readiness.

Key points

  • NISO's capacity development programme aims to enhance technical competence and operational readiness for safe and reliable grid management.
  • The programme promotes a common operational culture based on professionalism, integrity, and continuous improvement.
  • Participants are expected to share acquired knowledge with their teams, fostering a broader impact across NISO.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.