Tunji quoted the Minister as saying, “The recommendations of the committee are far-reaching and will proffer lasting solutions to the incessant power grid collapses that we have embarrassingly witnessed in the country in the immediate and long term.” The recommendations were submitted on Wednesday, November 6, 2024.
The Minister’s directive comes amid increasing concerns over the reliability of Nigeria’s power grid.
In light of this, the TCN has appealed for understanding from Nigerians, as repair work and necessary upgrades to the national grid continue.
Meanwhile, the TCN, in a separate statement, reassured the public that efforts were being intensified to prevent further disturbances and ensure a stable power supply.
The transmission company reported that the disturbance on Thursday was quickly identified, and recovery efforts were immediately implemented. The Abuja Axis was reportedly restored within minutes, though recovery work is still ongoing.
In a statement by Ndidi Mbah, the General Manager of Public Affairs for TCN, the agency outlined the steps being taken to resolve the crisis.
“The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) wishes to inform the public that the national grid experienced a disturbance at approximately 11:29 am this morning, caused by a sudden rise in frequency from 50.33Hz to 51.44Hz. Recovery efforts began immediately, and the Abuja Axis was restored within minutes. Recovery is still ongoing.”
The statement further explained that the frequency spike was caused by issues encountered at one of TCN’s substations, which had to be shut down to prevent further complications.
In addition to addressing this immediate issue, TCN has begun significant repair work on several critical transmission lines and substations, including the 330kV transmission line along the Shiroro-Mando axis, major upgrades at the Jebba Transmission Substation, and the restoration of the second Ugwuaji–Apir 330kV transmission line.
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TCN also confirmed that the agency is addressing the weaknesses identified in the investigative report on the causes of previous grid collapses.
According to the statement, “Following the submission of the investigative report on the causes of previous grid collapses, TCN has begun addressing the identified weaknesses in the transmission system. Efforts are being made to close the gaps highlighted in the report, and to enhance the overall stability and resilience of the grid. These efforts include both technical upgrades and strategic interventions based on the committee’s recommendations,” Mbah said.
However, TCN cautioned that while these repairs and improvements are underway, some instability in the system is likely to persist until all major works are completed. The company has asked for the public’s understanding and patience during this period of necessary repair and upgrades.
“However, it is important to note that while these repairs and improvements are underway, some degree of instability in the system is likely to persist until all major works are completed. TCN acknowledges the impact of these disruptions and kindly asks for the understanding and patience of the public during this challenging period,” Mbah said.
TCN also emphasized its ongoing commitment to improving the reliability of electricity supply across the country.
“The company remains committed to improving the reliability of electricity supply, recognising the vital role that stable power plays in Nigeria’s socio-economic development. TCN assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the grid’s long-term stability, in line with the recommendations of the investigative committee, while also addressing infrastructure damage such as vandalized transmission lines.”
The federal government’s focus on addressing the power grid collapses comes at a time when Nigeria’s energy sector continues to face significant challenges. Both the Ministry of Power and TCN have indicated that they are working towards lasting solutions that will ensure a more reliable and stable power supply for the nation.
