The Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s power sector transformation. Under the leadership of Engr. Jennifer Adighije, the company has made significant strides toward powering the Niger Delta region and the nation into a more sustainable energy future.
Established in 2005 as a private limited liability company, NDPHC is wholly owned by all tiers of government—federal, state, and local. The company is charged with implementing the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP), which was conceived to address the country’s long-standing electricity shortages. The NIPP integrates all components of power generation, transmission, and distribution, aiming to increase electricity access and reliability nationwide. It encompasses the construction of power generation plants, transmission lines, and distribution infrastructure to support economic growth and development.
Since Engr. Adighije assumed office as Managing Director/CEO in August 2024, NDPHC has overcome numerous sector challenges such as inadequate funding, gas supply disruptions, and infrastructural bottlenecks. Despite these, the company has delivered tangible results under her leadership.
Some of the major achievements during her tenure include:
- Restoring two turbine units at the Ihovbor Power Plant in Benin City, adding 230 MW to the national grid.
- Contributing 200 MW to Nigeria’s overall generation capacity, leading to a 16.4% increase in capacity and a 5% boost in national energy access.
- Completing 2,194 kilometers of 330kV and 887 kilometers of 132kV transmission lines.
- Commissioning ten 330/132kV substations and eight 132/33kV substations to support power distribution and stability.
- Launching a solar home systems program that has delivered electricity to more than 20,000 homes in off-grid northern communities.
- Introducing energy efficiency solutions aimed at reducing power losses and promoting sustainable energy use.
- Establishing strategic partnerships with world-class companies such as General Electric and Siemens to enhance the grid’s efficiency and reliability.
These accomplishments are not solely credited to her technical leadership but also to her inclusive management style. Engr. Adighije has fostered a culture of collaboration within the company, rolling out employee-centric programs that have boosted morale and productivity.
Under her guidance, NDPHC continues to optimize existing power plants and expand infrastructure to meet growing demand. Her administration has also focused on tackling long-standing industry issues. Key strategies include:
- Strengthening regulatory compliance and contractor accountability.
- Securing off-takers for stranded energy to minimize waste.
- Intensifying debt recovery to improve financial sustainability.
- Proposing the formation of a special paramilitary unit to protect infrastructure from vandalism and sabotage.
These forward-thinking approaches reflect NDPHC’s deep commitment to overcoming sectoral challenges and ensuring a reliable power supply across Nigeria.
Looking ahead, NDPHC is set to play an even greater role in powering the Niger Delta and driving Nigeria’s economic development. With Engr. Jennifer Adighije at the helm, the company is firmly on track to fulfill its mission of delivering stable, sustainable, and accessible electricity.
In conclusion, NDPHC’s accomplishments under Engr. Adighije’s leadership highlight a clear commitment to progress and growth in Nigeria’s power sector. If the current pace of development is sustained, the company will undoubtedly be a key driver in securing the energy future of both the Niger Delta and the nation at large.
