By DAYO ADESULU
Managing Director Confirms Repair Progress on Damaged Transmission Lines
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has ramped up efforts to restore electricity to the northern regions of the country following a significant blackout caused by damage to key transmission lines. Mr. Sule Abdulaziz, Managing Director of TCN, announced at a media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday that the ongoing repairs are expected to be completed by November 3.
Background of the Blackout Incident
On October 22, TCN reported widespread power outages in the north-east, north-west, and parts of the north-central regions after the 330-kilovolt Ugwuaji-Apir double circuit transmission lines 1 and 2 tripped off. Additionally, vandalism of the Shiroro-Kaduna line further reduced bulk electricity supply to major northern cities, including Kaduna and Kano.
Abdulaziz confirmed that the area affected by the trip-off has been secured with the assistance of the Nigerian Army, and restoration efforts are actively underway for one of the transmission lines, which will enable TCN to transmit approximately 400 Megawatts (MW) of power within that corridor.
Restoration Timeline and Security Measures
The TCN is making significant strides in repairing and restoring the second Ugwuaji-Apir line, with a completion target set for November 3. Abdulaziz explained that this restoration will allow TCN to transmit substantial amounts of power through Apir to Jos, Kaduna, and Kano.
To enhance security for personnel working on the Shiroro-Mando 330kV SC lines, TCN is collaborating with the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to ensure a safe working environment for the engineers tasked with rehabilitating the impacted towers.
Challenges Faced Due to Vandalism
Abdulaziz attributed the blackout primarily to vandalism of the Ugwuaji-Apir 330kV lines, which was reported on October 21. The tripping of these lines severely compromised TCN’s ability to transmit bulk power between northern and southern Nigeria. He noted that although trial reclosures were attempted, they failed due to damaged conductors caused by vandalism.
“Minimum supply was maintained to the North-West corridor through the second circuit until October 13, when the second line tripped off again,” he stated. Efforts to use local vigilantes for repairs were hampered by insecurity, complicating the restoration process.
Government Commitment to Power Restoration
Mr. Abdullahi Yakasai, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Community Engagement in the North-West, assured the public that the Federal Government is working diligently to restore power to the region. He urged Nigerians to remain patient, emphasizing that the blackout is not a deliberate action against the people.
“President Bola Tinubu is deeply concerned about the blackout and is actively monitoring the situation alongside the Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, and the TCN Managing Director,” Yakasai said. He expressed optimism that power would be restored across the northern states within the next five days.
Conclusion: A Focus on Restoration and Security
The ongoing efforts by TCN and the government to restore power to northern Nigeria underscore the importance of infrastructure maintenance and security in the electricity sector. As repairs continue, the collaboration between TCN, security forces, and local communities will be crucial in overcoming the challenges posed by vandalism and ensuring reliable electricity supply for residents in the affected regions.
