As Nigeria’s power sector continues to evolve more than a decade after the historic privatization of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), renewed attention is being drawn to the individuals who shaped the early years of the reform. One of the most significant figures from that era is Dr. Tinuade Sanda, the Managing Director of West Power & Gas Limited (WPG), the core investor that acquired a 60 per cent controlling equity stake in Eko Electricity Distribution Company (Eko DisCo) in 2013.
Who She Is
Dr. Tinuade Sanda is a seasoned Nigerian power-sector executive whose career became closely intertwined with the country’s electricity reform programme. She joined West Power & Gas Limited around the time the Federal Government commenced the unbundling of PHCN, which led to the creation and privatization of Nigeria’s electricity generation and distribution companies.
West Power & Gas Limited emerged as the preferred bidder for Eko DisCo during the 2013 privatization exercise, acquiring 60 per cent ownership while the Federal Government retained 40 per cent. As Managing Director of WPG, Dr. Sanda played a strategic role in the acquisition, transition, and early operational structuring of Eko DisCo under private ownership.
Role in Eko DisCo’s Early Privatized Years
Following the takeover, Dr. Sanda held several senior leadership positions within the Eko DisCo group structure. Over time, she rose to become Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Eko DisCo, making history as the first woman to head a Nigerian electricity distribution company.
Her tenure was marked by efforts to stabilize operations in one of Nigeria’s most commercially important electricity markets, covering parts of Lagos State and Ogun State. She oversaw initiatives focused on revenue assurance, customer enumeration, infrastructure upgrades, and regulatory engagement at a time when the power sector was grappling with liquidity challenges, legacy infrastructure issues, and tariff reforms.
Professional Background
Before her involvement in the power sector, Dr. Sanda built experience across finance, corporate governance, and regulatory-facing roles. This background proved critical in navigating the complex post-privatization environment, which required close coordination with government agencies, regulators, lenders, and labor unions.
Her leadership style positioned her as one of the most visible female executives in Nigeria’s energy industry during the 2010s, at a time when the sector was largely male-dominated.
Exit from West Power & Gas
In 2024, Dr. Sanda’s long association with West Power & Gas and Eko DisCo came to an end following internal leadership changes at the holding company level. Her exit marked the close of a defining chapter in the company’s post-privatization history, as West Power & Gas began repositioning its investment strategy amid mounting sector challenges and eventual divestment.
Legacy and Significance
Dr. Tinuade Sanda’s role in the acquisition and management of Eko DisCo places her among the central figures of Nigeria’s electricity privatization story. As Managing Director of West Power & Gas during the 2013 takeover, and later as CEO of Eko DisCo, she helped shape the operational direction of one of the country’s most important distribution utilities.
