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| Photo credit — Vice President Kashim Shettima |
The Federal Government has officially started construction of a new National Control Centre for the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) in Osogbo, Osun State. The facility will replace the existing 64-year-old centre and is designed to improve real-time monitoring, management and security of Nigeria’s electricity grid.
The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Wednesday, 30 September 2026. Vice-President Kashim Shettima was represented by his Special Adviser on Legal and Compliance Matters, Alhaji Bashir Maidugu. Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe also attended the event.
Why a New Control Centre Matters
Nigeria’s national grid has long struggled with instability, frequent collapses and limited visibility into real-time system conditions. The current National Control Centre in Osogbo has been in operation for more than six decades. Officials say it no longer has the capacity or technology needed to manage today’s more complex and interconnected power system.
A modern control centre acts as the “brain” of the electricity network. It continuously monitors generation, transmission lines, system frequency and demand, allowing operators to detect problems early and prevent small disturbances from turning into widespread blackouts.
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Key Features of the New Facility
According to details released by the Ministry of Power, the new ultra-modern National Control Centre will include:
• Integrated Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems
• Large-format control displays for clearer real-time visibility
• Advanced communications infrastructure and data systems
• Enhanced physical and cybersecurity measures
• A main building with basement, ground floor and first floor for operational and technical functions
• A dedicated powerhouse for continuous operation of critical systems
• A security and screening building plus underground electrical and fibre-optic connections
These tools will help operators identify developing faults faster, support preventive maintenance, optimise the use of available generation and transmission capacity, and coordinate restoration after interruptions.
Supporting Renewables and Regional Integration
Vice-President Shettima (through his representative) emphasised that reliable electricity is central to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He noted that modern system-management capabilities are essential as Nigeria expands its generation mix, especially with more solar and wind resources that require careful monitoring and coordination.
The new centre is also expected to strengthen Nigeria’s ability to participate effectively in the West African Power Pool (WAPP). Regional electricity trade offers opportunities for better resource utilisation, but it places greater responsibility on national system operators to maintain domestic grid security.
Official Statements
Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe stated that the existing centre “could no longer meet the current demands of NISO’s responsibilities.” Once equipped, tested and commissioned, the new facility will give operators clearer, timely information and improve coordination across the electricity industry.
NISO Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Abdu Bello Mohammed said the project will enhance the operator’s ability to monitor the national grid, coordinate system operations and make faster, better-informed decisions during disturbances.
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Broader Context
The National Control Centre plays a central role in keeping Nigeria’s power system stable. When generation, transmission or frequency issues are not detected and managed quickly, they can cascade across the grid. Improving this capability is one piece of a larger effort that also requires progress in gas supply, transmission infrastructure and distribution networks.
The project is presented as part of the government’s push to address long-standing weaknesses in electricity supply and build a more reliable foundation for industrial growth, small businesses, hospitals, schools and job creation.
Looking Ahead
Construction has only just begun. The real test will come when the centre is fully equipped, commissioned and operational. Success will depend not only on the physical infrastructure and technology but also on continuous investment in the skills and professional capacity of the people who will run it.
This development marks a concrete step toward modernising one of the most critical pieces of Nigeria’s electricity infrastructure. While it will not solve every power challenge overnight, a stronger National Control Centre should give system operators better tools to keep the lights on more reliably for millions of Nigerians.
Samuel O. Sulaimon is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Naijapiz. He covers News, Sports, Finance, Faiths, Education, Technology.
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