Lawal Halimat

The Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Sule Abdulaziz, has identified outdated infrastructure as the primary cause of frequent power grid collapses in the country. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Abdulaziz noted that some components of the power network are nearly 50 years old. 

To address the problem, the TCN is implementing a new system backed by the World Bank, which Abdulaziz revealed is 70% complete. He explained that this “scatter system” project will modernize the transmission network and reduce the frequency of disruptions.

“Almost a month ago, we were at Gwagwalada with the World Bank to celebrate reaching 70 percent completion of the project,” Abdulaziz said. “Once the scatter system is fully in place, it will reduce system disturbances significantly.” 

The TCN MD also disclosed plans to build a “super grid” that will offer alternative routes for electricity transmission, preventing nationwide outages when one line fails. However, he acknowledged that the government alone lacks the financial resources to fund these upgrades and said partnerships with private firms are critical to securing additional investment. 

“The honourable minister is now working with the presidency to secure the necessary approvals,” Abdulaziz explained. “When the super grid is operational, faults on one line can be bypassed using alternate routes, enhancing grid stability.” 

Abdulaziz defended the recent electricity tariff hikes, saying that power remains cheaper in Nigeria compared to countries like Chad, Mali, and Burkina Faso. He also claimed that households on Band A now enjoy 24-hour electricity, though many residents might disagree with this assertion.

The TCN boss emphasized the need for continuous investment in critical power infrastructure, adding that consistent upgrades are essential to meet the nation’s growing energy demands.