In a significant move towards fostering cooperation in Nigeria’s electricity sector, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) held its inaugural meeting with the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC) on 11th June 2025. This pivotal engagement, hosted at the TCN headquarters in Abuja, signals the start of a collaborative effort marked by professionalism and transparency between NISO’s management and one of the most influential labour unions in the power industry.
The high-profile meeting featured NISO’s top management, led by managing director/CEO Engr. Abdu Bello Mohammed, alongside SSAEAC leadership, represented by Comrade Engr. Benedict Chika and deputy president Comrade Rilwanu Shehu. The atmosphere was one of mutual respect, underscoring a shared dedication to advancing Nigeria’s electricity supply.
Engr. Mohammed referred to the meeting as a “landmark interaction,” emphasising the importance of engaging with labour unions for the effective operation of essential infrastructure sectors. He stated, “We cannot build a reliable power system without involving those who operate and maintain it. This engagement is timely and rooted in sincerity and a shared vision.”
He reiterated NISO’s commitment to values of transparency and accountability, highlighting the necessity of a harmonious relationship with staff unions for the success of Nigeria’s electricity transmission and dispatch framework.
Comrade Rilwanu Shehu praised NISO for initiating the dialogue, calling it a “bold and commendable move.” He underscored the importance of inclusivity and staff welfare in achieving productivity, stating, “Dialogue is a means of understanding and trust-building for sustainable reforms.”
General Secretary of SSAEAC, Comrade Nnamdi Vincent Ajibo, assured NISO of the union’s support for reforms aimed at improving grid operations and worker welfare. He emphasised the importance of communication and maintaining industrial peace through fairness and respect.
Key discussion points included enhancing technical capacity, ensuring inclusive policy formulation, promoting safe working environments, and establishing a sustainable framework for ongoing dialogue between NISO and SSAEAC.
Both parties concluded with a commitment to fostering mutual trust and collaboration to address challenges proactively, aiming to prevent industrial disputes.
This engagement marks a renewed focus on cooperation within Nigeria’s power sector, offering hope for improved service delivery and responsive labour relations amidst ongoing challenges. Observers view this partnership as a potential model for bridging gaps between management and labour across other sectors in the country.
