How AI Can Transform Nigeria’s Power Sector— Olushola Aina

Tosin Clegg

An expert in sustainable energy management, Olushola Aina, has said that artificial intelligence (AI) holds immense potential in transforming Nigeria’s energy sector and addressing its critical challenges.

Aina stated this at the Technical And Administrative (TAM) meeting of Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Nigeria Section.

During his keynote presentation titled “AI Integration in Nigeria’s Energy Sector: Overcoming Sustainable Energy Challenges.

Aina, currently the Head of Corporate Utilities at Shell, drew from his extensive 15-year experience in the oil and gas, conventional, and renewable power industries, alongside his world-class education from Yale and other prestigious institutions. His presentation provided an in-depth analysis of AI’s applications in smart grid technologies, emphasising their significance for sustainable energy management in Nigeria.

According to him, “AI can predict energy demand accurately, balance loads, detect faults, and integrate renewable energy sources into Nigeria’s grid system.”

He highlighted how AI integration in smart grids can facilitate access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 and 11.

“The potential of AI to address Nigeria’s inadequate power supply, high transmission and distribution losses, and overall inefficient energy management cannot be overstated,” he said.

Aina stressed the importance of capacity building and collaboration among universities, energy companies, and government agencies to develop AI-driven solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique energy challenges. He also pointed out the necessity of addressing challenges related to data availability and quality, infrastructure limitations, standardization, and ethical considerations in AI applications. “Developing and implementing these AI solutions requires a concerted effort and partnership across various sectors,” he noted.

The insights from Engr. Aina’s presentation sparked robust discussions among attendees about the future of Nigeria’s energy sector and the strategic role AI could play in achieving sustainable energy management. His expertise and thought leadership were widely acknowledged by IEEE members, who appreciated his forward-thinking approach to the nation’s energy issues.

As a strategic business leader with a strong background in research, project, and policy development, Engr. Aina’s insights are invaluable to Nigeria’s energy transformation efforts. His notable publications, including “Energy Storage Systems Technologies, Evolution, and Applications” and “Decarbonization, Opportunities and Dilemmas for Developing Countries,” further underscore his dedication to sustainable energy solutions.

IEEE leadership expressed its deep appreciation to Engr. Olushola Aina for his enlightening presentation, which serves as a springboard for continued dialogue and collaborative efforts in leveraging AI for a more sustainable and resilient energy future in Nigeria. His contributions are seen as critical in shaping the nation’s energy policies and strategies.

As Nigeria navigates its ongoing energy challenges, insights from experts like Engr. Aina are instrumental in driving progress. IEEE remains committed to promoting knowledge sharing, capacity building, and stakeholder collaboration to drive the adoption of innovative technologies such as AI in the energy sector.

In the context of global sustainability goals and the urgent need to combat climate change, Nigeria must capitalize on the opportunities provided by AI and smart grid technologies. By drawing on the expertise of professionals like Engr. Aina and fostering cooperative efforts among key stakeholders, Nigeria can set a course toward a cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable energy future.