TCN Aims to Restore Power in Northern Nigeria by November 3, Implements Temporary Measures Amid Ongoing Repairs
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Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced that repairs to the damaged transmission line responsible for a recent blackout in northern Nigeria are set to be completed by Sunday, November 3, 2024. In the interim, TCN is implementing alternative measures to transmit 400 megawatts of electricity to selected areas within the next 24 hours.
At a press briefing in Abuja, TCN’s Managing Director, Sule Abdulaziz, provided a detailed update on the ongoing restoration efforts. The blackout has primarily affected the north-east, north-west, and parts of the north-central region following the failure of the 330-kilovolt Ugwuaji–Apir double circuit transmission lines 1 and 2. Additionally, the vandalism of the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line has further reduced electricity supply to key cities such as Kaduna and Kano.
Abdulaziz elaborated on the challenges faced by TCN, noting that a snapped 330kv transmission line in the swampy forest of Igumale, Benue State, has worsened the situation. He acknowledged that insecurity in the region has impeded repair efforts but reassured the public that TCN is committed to restoring power as quickly as possible.
President Bola Tinubu has intervened by directing TCN to expedite the repair process and has tasked National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu with providing security support for the engineering teams working in affected areas. Abdulaziz highlighted that TCN engineers are actively engaged in restoration work, with the first line expected to facilitate the transmission of approximately 400 megawatts of power once operational. The second line is projected to enable the transmission of between 500 to 600 megawatts once both lines are restored.
He emphasized the critical role these lines play in supplying power to regions like Jos, Kaduna, and Kano. Due to ongoing security concerns, TCN engineers require military escorts for their operations, which limits the hours they can work in vulnerable areas. Despite these challenges, Abdulaziz expressed optimism that line one will be ready for use within a day, and the restoration of line two is anticipated by Sunday, ensuring a significant improvement in power supply to the northern region.
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