Zahira Aminu works with the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), a government agency responsible for the strategic plans and coordination of policies relating to energy. Zahira works in the Energy Information System Department where she collects, manages and disseminates energy data. At EMP-G 2026, Zahira studied the GeoSpatial Data track with Lupupa Siulapwa, an Energy Access and Electrification Strategy Specialist from Zambia. Lupupa was previously an attendee at EMP-G like Zahira.
Tell us about your experience with energy modelling
I have experience in energy modelling and the compilation of energy statistics and energy balance. I was introduced to modelling two years ago, when I attended a programme organised by IAEA at the Agon National Laboratory. We studied MESSAGE, LEAP, GECOM and TIMES, and learned how to use them, their limitations and their strengths.
Can you share any examples where the use of modelling has resulted in a practical outcome?
Yes, in my own organisation, ECN, we use modelling tools in our energy planning. One tool that we are currently using is the Nigeria Energy Emissions Calculator, which was developed for the UK 2050 framework. It helps you to understand demand and mobilise the supply technologies while also understanding the related emissions.
The results of the calculator were used in the update of our Nationally Determined Contributions, and my organisation is planning to update the national energy master plan and policy using the result in the update to give us insight.
What kind of difference would you say energy modelling makes to these decisions?
As one saying goes, all models are wrong, but some are useful, right? So modelling tools are not there to tell you what will happen in the future. They can only provide a guide, an insight into what to expect if you follow different pathways. Let’s say we have a scenario that focuses on the use of renewables, you will see the outcome. Or if you focus on the use of fossils; it’s just a guide on what to expect.
Why did you choose to study GeoSpatial this time?
Because energy planning is based on reliable data. And Geospatial data is really important when it comes to energy planning because it tells you where the infrastructure exists. In Nigeria we have a significant urban-rural access gap. This data tells you where the energy infrastructure exists, where there are gaps, and where the investments are needed in specific locations.
Before attending the training, I thought geospatial data management was just about creating maps. But this programme has changed my perspective. Geospatial data is about having accurate data, standardized data, that’s well-documented, and also having a governance framework to ensure continuity, collection, maintenance and sharing.
Do you feel that there is something that current models are not including that could be added to future versions?
Not really. I think the existing models cover most aspects quite well. But there is a need to consult with local communities to sense check proposals before they’re implemented.
An example is when you talk about clean cooking. We have many non-governmental organizations that supply clean cooking equipment to villages. At the end of the day, those villages are not using the technology because it’s not aligned with their culture. For instance, in a typical village in Nigeria, they use the three stone cooking technology because we have large households. The technology NGOs are providing is not suited to this context. Instead of giving them the technology, why not teach them how to use it to align with their own environment or ask them what kind of technology they would actually use.
What would you say to somebody working in government about the benefits of energy modelling – would you recommend it?
Sure. As I said, data needs a coordination role when it comes to governance. Energy Commission of Nigeria is the leading energy planning institution but we do not produce all the data sets that we need. We need to work with other organisations so it’s important that the government provides the framework for coordination among the agencies involved in energy planning.
They are interdependent. When you talk about energy, you talk about electricity, about cooking, but mostly government focus when you say energy, is about electricity.
Final question: how would you sum up your experience here?
Wow, it was a valuable experience; I’ve learned a lot from my colleagues and my trainers. I really appreciate the organizers, CCG, SEforAll, and the ICTP for providing such a great platform for learning and professional development. I think I will apply for more training in the future.
Thank you so much for your time.
