The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) is working to restore power to northern states impacted by a prolonged blackout caused by vandalism. For over a week, these regions have faced disruptions following attacks on critical transmission infrastructure, primarily along the Shiroro-Kaduna line, a vital link for Electricity supply in the northern part of the country. In response, TCN has engaged the support of the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to secure the site, allowing its engineering teams to access and repair the damaged Infrastructure safely.
During a recent public meeting, Nafisatu Ali, Executive Director of the Independent System Operator at TCN, addressed the ongoing power issues. Ali stated that assertions of a permanent Power Outage in the North were inaccurate. She emphasised that they are dedicated to quickly restoring bulk electricity and actively working to restore the regional supply network. Ali emphasised the necessity of ensuring the safety of the impacted zone before sending in engineers, considering the risks posed by the existing Security situation.
Bulk power was redirected through another line for temporary resolution.
Meanwhile, Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s General Manager of Public Affairs, added that the company is dedicated to restoring electricity; however, ongoing Insecurity has hindered their repair efforts. Mbah noted that if sufficient security measures were in place, it would be possible to deploy maintenance teams to the location, given the dangers they face. Despite these challenges, they are working persistently to address these issues and reconnect power for the northern communities impacted. Acknowledging the Disruption caused by the power outage, TCN has taken immediate action to ease the impact. The organisation has redirected bulk electricity through the Ugwuaji-Apir 330kV line, aiming to temporarily assist the northern grid.
Unfortunately, this line has been interrupted recently, making the restoration efforts even more challenging. TCN reiterated its ongoing partnership with the NSA to reach the damaged transmission line, prioritising the safety of its workers during the repair process. Mbah recognised the severe effects that the power cut has had on both the community and businesses in the North. She emphasised that they know how crucial power is for promoting socio-economic development. Mbah reiterated the organisation’s dedication to reestablishing power and expressed gratitude for the public’s understanding during this difficult time. She noted that working with the NSA is vital to their approach to managing the situation and preventing further interruptions.
Govt assured the public that electricity will be restored soon.
Moreover, the government has supported its efforts as TCN navigates the dual infrastructure repair and security challenges. On Monday, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, assured the public that power would soon be restored to the 17 northern states impacted by the blackout. After meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja, Adelabu told State House reporters that the recent power cuts were due to damage to the essential transmission line, the main power provider for northern areas.
However, the minister assured that the necessary repairs would be finished in three to five days, offering hope to the impacted communities. Looking at the effect of the blackout on the affected communities, the organisation must address it since it can disrupt everyday activities, impede business functions, and influence healthcare and Education systems throughout northern regions. Additionally, it may burden local economies, slow industrial productivity, and increase safety issues as residents and businesses endure long periods without light.
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Disruption of essential services that depend on electricity may increase community difficulties and hinder local progress. Nevertheless, despite these challenges, TCN is unwavering in its goal to bring power back to the North. It effectively manages the necessity for immediate repairs while prioritising the safety of its staff. By collaborating with security forces and obtaining governmental support, TCN strives to implement a solution that will restore stability to the northern electricity network and meet the urgent requirements of those impacted by the power disruption.