Steady Hands, Strong Results: How Engr. Jennifer Adighije is Transforming NDPHC against All Odds

By Ikiola Shittu

Engineer Jennifer Adighije, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), is steadily writing her name into the organisation’s history as one of its most impactful leaders since its establishment in 2005. With an exceptional grasp of the technical and administrative demands of the power sector, Engr. Adighije has been quietly but firmly steering the company toward renewed efficiency and relevance.

Under her stewardship, NDPHC has refocused on its core mandate of building and maintaining power plants, transmission infrastructure, distribution assets, and gas projects. In line with its four-fold operational portfolio—Generation, Transmission, Distribution, and Gas Assets—the company has undergone a series of reforms aimed at sharpening efficiency and repositioning it for sustainable growth.

A central pillar of Engr. Adighije’s reform agenda is revenue optimisation. Since assuming office, she has pushed through critical measures to enhance asset performance, cut unjustified expenditure, and strengthen financial discipline across the organisation. One of her top priorities has been improving liquidity by aggressively pursuing recovery of long-standing debts for energy already supplied—an effort that is beginning to yield significant results.

Her leadership has also driven a digital shift within the organisation. She has championed the deployment of technology to streamline operations, boost staff productivity, and improve the overall service delivery of NDPHC to Nigerians. Colleagues and industry watchers alike describe her as a visionary administrator—decisive, transparent, and deeply committed to public service.

The results speak for themselves. Under her watch, NDPHC has recorded notable achievements, including the recovery of 110 abandoned containers at Onne Port—valued at over $5 million and containing critical turbine and HRSG components. The company has also entered advanced discussions with NERC to recoup its investments in expanding the Transmission Company of Nigeria’s (TCN) grid infrastructure.

Equally impressive is the restoration of key power assets. Within one year, six dormant gas turbines across various NIPP stations—Calabar, Omotosho II, Benin, and Alaoji—have been brought back to life, adding about 750MW to NDPHC’s mechanical generation capacity. Additionally, over $10 million in legacy debts has been recovered from bilateral customers.

Despite these remarkable strides, a few faceless individuals have attempted to tarnish her reputation by spreading baseless allegations on obscure online platforms. But for anyone familiar with the source of such claims, their lack of credibility is immediately obvious. Engr. Adighije has remained unfazed, choosing instead to allow her performance and track record to speak for her.

Beyond the boardroom, Engr. Adighije is also known for her philanthropic works and commitment to community service. Her impact extends far beyond corporate accomplishments, reflecting a passion for humanity and public good.

Engr. Jennifer Adighije’s leadership continues to strengthen NDPHC, proving that integrity, competence, and vision still matter in public service—and can indeed yield remarkable results.

Shittu a change advocate and media consultant writes from Abuja.