TCN: Northern Nigeria Blackout to Continue Due to Security Issues, Limited Power Restoration Efforts Ongoing

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced that the ongoing blackout affecting parts of Northern Nigeria is expected to persist due to security challenges that hinder the repair of critical transmission lines. While efforts are underway to restore power through alternative routes, a full resolution of the issue is not anticipated in the near future.

The blackout began following the vandalism of the Shiroro-Mando transmission line, which provided bulk electricity to the northern states. In response, TCN redirected power through the Ugwuaji-Apir 330-kilovolt (kV) double-circuit transmission line to mitigate the impact. However, a tripping incident on this alternative line further complicated the situation.

Speaking at a public hearing conducted by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Engr. Nafisatu Asabe Ali, Executive Director of the Independent System Operator at TCN, explained that repairing the Ugwuaji-Apir line would only provide a partial solution. Although the line has a capacity to carry up to 750 megawatts (MW) of power, voltage stability issues in Kano restrict the amount that can be supplied to Kano, Kaduna, and parts of the Niger Republic to just 350 MW.

"The larger Shiroro-Mando transmission line, which supplies more power, remains out of service due to insecurity in the area where it was damaged," she said. The Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) has advised TCN that the location where three towers were destroyed remains inaccessible due to ongoing security threats.

Engr. Nafisatu noted that while TCN has the necessary materials for repairs, work cannot proceed until the security situation improves. Even when the Ugwuaji-Apir line is restored, maximum power transmission will be limited to 350 MW. Currently, the region shares 250 MW of electricity with the Niger Republic.

Meanwhile, NERC Chairman Garba Usman criticized TCN for failing to implement measures to prevent equipment failures, particularly transformer explosions, which have contributed to frequent power outages. He called for stronger preventive actions to avoid transformer fires that could disrupt the entire grid.