The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has confirmed that the recovery process is ongoing to stabilize the national grid following a disturbance that occurred on Thursday at approximately 11:29 am.
According to a statement from Mrs. Ndidi Mbah, TCN's General Manager of Public Affairs, the grid experienced a sudden spike in frequency from 50.33Hz to 51.44Hz, causing the disruption. Mbah explained that recovery efforts were immediately put into action and that the Abuja axis was fully restored within 28 minutes of the incident.
The disturbance was traced to issues encountered at one of TCN's substations, which had to be shut down temporarily to prevent further complications. Mbah assured the public that TCN was actively addressing the situation and working on significant repairs across several critical transmission lines and substations. These include the 330 Kilo Volt (kV) transmission lines along the Shiroro–Mando axis, major upgrades at the Jebba Transmission substation, and the restoration of the second Ugwuaji–Apir 330kV transmission line.
In addition to addressing the immediate disturbance, Mbah stated that TCN had already begun implementing measures in response to the investigative report on previous grid collapses. The report highlighted several weaknesses in the transmission system, and TCN is working to address them to prevent future disruptions. Mbah emphasized that efforts were underway to close the gaps highlighted in the report, which would improve the overall stability and resilience of the grid. These efforts include both technical upgrades and strategic interventions as outlined by the committee’s recommendations.
However, Mbah noted that while repairs and improvements are in progress, some degree of instability in the system may persist until all major works are completed. She acknowledged the challenges faced by the public due to these disruptions and appealed for their understanding and patience during this period. Mbah assured the public that TCN remains committed to enhancing the reliability of the electricity supply, recognizing the critical role stable power plays in Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
In conclusion, she reiterated TCN's commitment to ensuring the long-term stability of the national grid, aligning their actions with the recommendations of the investigative committee. The company is also addressing issues such as infrastructure damage, including vandalized transmission lines, to ensure a more reliable and resilient power supply in the future.