The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Engr. Jennifer Adighije, has called for the optimisation of Nigeria’s electricity infrastructure to accelerate industrialisation, attract investment and unlock the country’s socio-economic potential.
Adighije made the call while delivering the Distinguished Alumni Lecture organised by the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Lagos (UNILAG).
The lecture, titled ‘Optimising Electricity for Powering Nigeria’s New Socio-Economic Frontiers,’ was held at the Engineering Lecture Theatre and attracted academics, industry professionals, students and stakeholders in the power sector.
Returning to her alma mater, Adighije described the event as both an honour and a homecoming, expressing appreciation to the University of Lagos for providing the academic foundation that shaped her career and leadership journey in Nigeria’s electricity industry.
She said the lecture theme was particularly relevant as the power sector undergoes major reforms aimed at expanding electricity access, attracting investment and improving service delivery.
According to the NDPHC chief, electricity has become the ‘currency of development’ in the global economy, with countries that have reliable and affordable power better positioned to create jobs, attract investments and drive industrial growth.
She added that dependable electricity is also essential to strengthening healthcare and education systems and improving citizens’ quality of life.
Adighije highlighted the Electricity Act 2023 as one of the most significant reforms in Nigeria’s power sector, noting that the legislation empowers states to establish and regulate their own electricity markets.
‘The legislation has created unprecedented opportunities for investment, innovation, competition and improved service delivery while accelerating the emergence of vibrant sub-national electricity markets capable of attracting greater private-sector participation,’ she said.
She disclosed that NDPHC is repositioning itself to maximise the value of its assets through improved operational efficiency, stronger corporate governance and strategic partnerships.
According to her, the company is committed to ensuring that investments in electricity infrastructure translate into tangible benefits for Nigerians while supporting the ongoing transformation of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry.
Looking ahead, Adighije expressed confidence in the ability of the next generation of engineers to transform the sector through smarter electricity grids and cleaner, technology-driven energy systems.
UNILAG Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, described the lecture as a celebration of excellence, collaboration and the enduring legacy of the university.
Ogunsola commended Adighije as a distinguished alumna whose professional achievements, she said, reflect UNILAG’s commitment to producing graduates with technical competence, integrity and visionary leadership.
She also stressed the importance of stronger collaboration between academia, industry and government amid rapid technological changes driven by the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
‘Through initiatives such as this, we create platforms where experience meets aspiration and where our students are inspired by those who have successfully translated knowledge into impactful service,’ she said.
The lecture provided a platform for discussions on electricity sector reforms, technological innovation and the role of engineering in driving Nigeria’s economic development.