Tinuade Sanda, in the wake of the privatization of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) back in 2013, the emergence of 11 Electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOs) reshaped the landscape of the nation’s energy sector. Among these entities stands the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC), presently touted as the largest electricity distribution company in the sub-Saharan African region.
What makes today’s discourse particularly noteworthy is the striking observation that out of the 11 distribution companies, only one is currently under the stewardship of a woman. Thus, in an industry traditionally dominated by male counterparts, Dr. Tinuade Toyin Sanda stands as a trailblazer, embarking on a mission to challenge the age-old axiom that what a man can do, a woman can do better.
In terms of her professional prowess, Dr. Sanda epitomizes the quintessential entrepreneur, boasting a multifaceted background that spans academia, finance, oil and gas, energy, trade, and diplomacy. Her selection to helm the foremost power distribution and energy firm, with interests extending across various sub-sectors within the electricity value chain, is a testament to her impeccable fit for the role.
Demonstrating exemplary leadership acumen, Dr. Sanda brings to the table over 22 years of extensive experience in financial management, treasury management, and a commendable 14-year tenure in various leadership capacities within the energy industry.
Educationally, Dr. Sanda holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Financial Management and Entrepreneurship, complemented by a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) specializing in Strategic Planning from Edinburgh Business School, Herriot Watt University, Scotland, UK. Her academic pursuits, coupled with her hands-on experience across diverse sectors, have equipped her with the requisite expertise to strategically navigate organizational transformation, fostering growth, competitiveness, and unparalleled outcomes.
Dr. Sanda’s illustrious career trajectory encompasses notable roles in the banking and finance sector, including her tenure as a relationship manager at Chartered Bank in 2001, followed by a transition to Access Bank in 2003, where she garnered invaluable experience in branch operations, customer service, cash management, and retail credit management. Prior to assuming her role at EKEDC in 2013, she served as the Head of Finance and Administration at Vanguard Energy Resources, a leading oil and gas trading services company.
A recipient of numerous accolades and esteemed memberships in professional bodies both locally and internationally, Dr. Sanda’s commitment to empowering the next generation is evident through her mentorship initiatives and engagements as a sought-after keynote speaker in seminars, webinars, and capacity-building trainings across Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.
Under Dr. Sanda’s astute leadership as the MD/CEO of EKEDC, the company has achieved remarkable milestones, including record-breaking monthly collections, notable reductions in ATC&C losses, successful relaunch of the Meter Asset Provider (MAP) Scheme, and the installation of numerous transformers to address overload challenges within EKEDC’s network.
Furthermore, Dr. Sanda’s emphasis on corporate governance is exemplified by EKEDC’s submission of its Audited Financial Statement for the financial year 2022, setting a precedent for transparency and accountability within the industry. Her unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in EKEDC’s customer-centric approach, evidenced by the high resolution rate of customer complaints despite an increase in their volume.
Dr. Tinuade Sanda
Recognized for her exemplary achievements, Dr. Sanda has garnered accolades from regulatory bodies such as the Nigerian Electricity Industry Regulator (NERC), underscoring her unwavering dedication to driving positive change and excellence within the energy sector.
Driven by a passion for innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement, Dr. Sanda remains steadfast in her commitment to steering EKEDC towards greater heights, cementing her legacy as a visionary leader and catalyst for transformative change in Nigeria’s energy landscape.
Source: guardian.ng
