Power Sector, Public Agencies Lagging in Digital Adoption – NESG

The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, Tayo Aduloju, has raised concerns about the slow pace of digital adoption among electricity distribution companies and government agencies in Nigeria. He made these remarks on Tuesday in Lagos during a biennial lecture hosted by the Chartered Institute of Directors in honor of its President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Tijjani Borodo.

Aduloju noted that while private sector organizations are making progress in digital resilience, the public sector and utility companies remain far behind. He highlighted that, despite over two decades of digitisation efforts in Nigeria, smart meter penetration in the power sector is still a major challenge.

Speaking on the topic “Building Digital Resilience: Governance, Risk and Compliance,” Aduloju pointed out that sectors under greater digital pressure—such as banking, media, and consumer services—tend to show higher levels of resilience. In contrast, public sector institutions and power utilities are slow to adapt, even though digital payment and energy systems have existed for more than 25 years.

He expressed concern that the government’s sluggish approach to digitisation is especially risky in light of growing cyber threats. According to him, over 58 percent of government operations globally are under constant threat from cyberattacks, which makes digital resilience a critical priority.

Aduloju emphasized the need for public institutions to accelerate their digital transformation efforts, including securing critical infrastructure against cyber risks. He urged CEOs and boards of directors across sectors to develop strategic cybersecurity capabilities in response to emerging digital threats, particularly those driven by artificial intelligence.

“Many organisations are still showing low levels of strategic readiness and capability when facing major threats,” he warned. “That’s dangerous, especially in a world where cyber incidents are no longer a question of if, but when.”

He also called for a generational balance on corporate boards, suggesting that companies should train experienced professionals and integrate younger, digitally savvy members to strengthen governance and innovation.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the occasion, Anthony Idigbe, stated that digital resilience allows organisations to deliver services directly to customers without middlemen. He also noted that artificial intelligence is reshaping how boards are held accountable to shareholders, making digital resilience an essential part of modern corporate governance.

During the lecture, CIOD President Tijjani Borodo unveiled the institute’s new logo and presented awards to several individuals and organisations. As his tenure nears its end, Borodo reflected on his achievements and encouraged the incoming leadership to elevate the institute to greater heights.