In a landmark decision signaling a bold leap toward tech-driven energy sector transformation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Engr. Dr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat, a globally recognized innovator and governance strategist, as the new Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
A Profile of Excellence
Engr. Ramat is a distinguished multidisciplinary engineer and Harvard-trained strategist, holding a doctorate in Strategic Management from Lincoln University, a master’s in Electronics and Telecommunications Engineering from National University, India, and a B.Eng in Electrical Engineering from Bayero University Kano. He is a certified power transmission systems expert as trained by Gonzaga University, USA, he was trained by Harvard University as certified expert in big data analytics, and cloud infrastructure. Ramat is also a Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect Expert.
Engr. Ramat’s expertise in power systems and energy efficiency was demonstrated during his tenure as pioneer Managing Director of the Kano State Metropolitan Agency (KASMA), where he engineered retrofitting projects to reduce streetlight fuel consumption costs. His leadership in Ungogo LGA further showcased his ability to merge engineering acumen with governance, deploying blockchain technology to create Nigeria’s first decentralized e-identity system and launching specialized agencies that streamlined revenue collection, agriculture, and healthcare.
Notably, as Ungogo LGA Executive Chairman, Ramat’s cloud-based e-revenue system under the Ungogo Internal Revenue Agency (UIRA) boosted internally generated revenue by 300%, setting a benchmark for fiscal transparency. His cybersecurity innovation, LURA, a smart security software integrating IoT and biometrics, revolutionized community policing, curbing kidnappings and social vices.
Beyond public service, Engr. Ramat led AG Ramat Global Link and AG Ramat Global Apex, driving technological solutions in the private sector. His accolades include being named among the 50 Most Influential Young Leaders in Africa by Pan African Youth Leadership Foundation, 2022 in Dubai, and Best Performing LGA Chairman by the Kano State House of Assembly.
President Tinubu’s office praised Ramat’s appointment, emphasizing his “unique fusion of engineering excellence, strategic innovation, and proven capacity to leverage technology for institutional transformation.” Engr. Ramat affirmed his commitment to advancing NERC’s mandate, stating, “I will prioritize data-driven policies, grid modernization, and inclusive frameworks to ensure equitable and sustainable energy access for all Nigerians.”
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) is the independent regulatory body mandated to oversee Nigeria’s electricity market, ensuring reliable supply, fair pricing, and sector-wide innovation.