By Gabriel Ameh
ABUJA | Media360Impact Report
The West African Power Pool (WAPP) has re-elected Abdulaziz as Chairman of its Board of Directors for another three years, as the regional electricity body steps up efforts to strengthen power cooperation and develop a more competitive electricity market across West Africa.
The re-election comes at a critical stage in the region’s drive to improve electricity integration, strengthen institutional governance and prepare for the next phase of the Regional Electricity Market.
At its meeting, the Board reviewed plans for an orderly transition within the International Coordination Centre (ICC), aimed at maintaining operational continuity during Phase Two of the regional electricity market.
The institution’s growing visibility and progress have attracted new partnerships, reinforcing its commitment to building an integrated, reliable and competitive electricity system for West African countries.
The Secretariat also reaffirmed its commitment to advancing preparations for the launch of Phase Two of the regional market, scheduled for early 2027.
WAPP Seeks Stronger Financial Discipline
The Board emphasised the need for member electricity utilities to settle outstanding financial contributions and support sound financial management.
It noted that consistent funding, prudent administration and collective discipline were essential to maintaining WAPP’s credibility and ensuring effective service delivery.
The meeting also considered a restructuring study on the operationalisation of the Independent System Market Operator (ISMO), intended to align the institution with international best practices and reduce the risk of political interference as the regional electricity market develops.
Board Approves Women in Energy Charter
In another key decision, the Board adopted the Charter of the Forum for Women in Energy in West Africa, alongside a Memorandum of Understanding with the Millennium Challenge Account Côte d’Ivoire.
The meeting also welcomed new representatives of member utilities to the Executive Board.
They include Lawrent Tossou, Managing Director of Société Béninoise d’Énergie Électrique (SBEE), representing Benin; Amidou Traore, Director General of CI-ENERGIES; and Julien Sagna, representing Société de Gestion de l’Énergie de Manantali (SOGEM).
Four Organisations Seek WAPP Membership
The Board reviewed membership applications from four electricity-sector organisations seeking to join the regional power pool.
The applicants are Konexa of Nigeria; Société de Gestion de l’Énergie de Sambangalou et du Réseau de Transport d’Électricité (SOGESART) of Senegal; Société de Gestion de l’Énergie des Ouvrages du Haut Bassin du Fleuve Sénégal (SOGEOH); and HOLDEN–Niger SARL, an independent power producer from Niger.
The applications are expected to be submitted for ratification at the WAPP General Assembly scheduled to take place before the end of 2026.
Abdulaziz’s re-election places him at the centre of WAPP’s continuing efforts to deepen regional electricity cooperation, implement institutional reforms and establish a more efficient and competitive power market capable of supporting West Africa’s energy development.
Source: West African Power Pool (WAPP).
