NDPHC Boss: Optimising Power Infrastructure Key to Nigeria’s Economic Growth
Adighije made the assertion on Wednesday 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.
Speaking at her alma mater, Adighije described the occasion as an honour and homecoming, expressing appreciation to the University of Lagos for providing the academic foundation that shaped her career and leadership in Nigeria’s power sector.
She said the lecture was timely, given the ongoing reforms in the electricity sector aimed at expanding access, attracting investment and improving service delivery.
According to her, electricity has become the “currency of development” in the global economy, with countries that have reliable and affordable power better positioned to attract investment, create jobs, industrialise and improve healthcare, education and living standards.
Adighije identified the Electricity Act 2023 as a major milestone in the sector, noting that it empowers states to establish and regulate their electricity markets.
She said the legislation had opened up new opportunities for investment, innovation and competition, while creating room for stronger private-sector participation in sub-national electricity markets.
The NDPHC boss said the company was repositioning itself to maximise the value of its assets through improved operational efficiency, stronger corporate governance and strategic partnerships.
She reaffirmed NDPHC’s commitment to supporting the transformation of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry through efficient asset management and infrastructure optimisation.
Looking ahead, Adighije expressed confidence in the next generation of engineers, saying they would play a critical role in developing smarter and cleaner energy systems through artificial intelligence, automation, battery storage, smart metering and advanced power electronics.
She urged engineering students to embrace continuous learning and professional discipline, stressing the importance of engineering in addressing societal challenges and supporting economic growth.
Adighije said Nigeria’s electricity sector was entering a new era driven by reforms, innovation, collaboration and increased investment, adding that optimising the country’s electricity infrastructure would be essential to powering homes, industries and businesses.
In her opening remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, described the lecture as a celebration of excellence, collaboration and the enduring legacy of the institution.
Ogunsola commended Adighije as one of UNILAG’s distinguished alumni, saying her professional achievements reflected the university’s commitment to producing graduates with technical competence, integrity and visionary leadership.
She also stressed the need for stronger collaboration among academia, industry and government amid rapid technological changes associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The lecture attracted academics, industry professionals, students and stakeholders in Nigeria’s power sector, with discussions focusing on electricity reforms, innovation and the role of engineering in driving economic development.
