Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu has revealed an alternative plan to restore electricity supply to Northern Nigeria.
The plan involves utilising the Ikot Ekpene-Ugwuaji-Makurdi-Jos Transmission Line to by-pass vandalised transmission lines and ensure power supply to affected areas.
Addressing a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Adelabu said vandalism of transmission lines, particularly Shiroro-Mando 330kV SC lines, has disrupted power supply since September 9, 2024.
He added that insecurity has hindered repair efforts, prompting collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser and Nigerian Army.
Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN Managing Director, Sule Abdulaziz said the company prioritises rehabilitation of impacted towers with focus on Ugwuaji-Apir 330kV lines, targeting November 3 for restoration of supply. TCN’s restoration of Ugwuaji-Apir lines will enable 400 megawatts power transmission.
Abdulaziz also confirmed that engineers are working on Shiroro-Mando 330kV SC Lines 1 and 2. Local vigilantes assisted in identifying the damaged towers, while Nigerian Air Force aerial surveillance confirmed four impacted towers.
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Northern Nigeria has faced devastating power blackouts for weeks, crippling economic activities and causing residents hardship.
On October 22, TCN reported significant power outages in north-east, north-west and parts of north-central regions after 330-kilovolt Ugwaji-Apir transmission lines tripped. The Shiroro-Kaduna line vandalism impacted power supply in Kaduna and Kano States.
Another incident on October 24 involved a snapped 330kV line in Benue State’s swampy forest area, compounding the blackout.
President Bola Tinubu had on Monday directed TCN to expedite repairs and ordered the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu to secure vulnerable transmission facilities.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement North West, Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai urged Nigerians to protect national assets, appealing for patience among northern residents while addressing the blackout.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
