By SUNDAY ABBA, Abuja
Three Weeks After it was Vandalised, the Ugwuaji – Apir 330kV transmission Lines have been fully energised as the second line came on stream Thursday, 14th November, 2024 at about 11.50am.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, announced this in a statement signed by its General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah.
Recall that the 330kV Ugwuaji – Apir transmission lines had been out of service since October 21st, 2024, due to the vandalism of the 330kV double circuit transmission lines 1&2. Line 1 was repaired and restored earlier on October 30, 2024.
According to TCN, the energisation of the line followed successful completion of the repairs and stringing of damaged portions of the transmission line by its engineers.
The restoration of bulk power through line 2 means that both lines are now in circuit. Therefore, there will be substantial improvement of power supply to the North East and North West
The other line was earlier restored a few days after the incident which threw most part of the North into darkness, allowing for partial supply of electricity to the region since then.
“Presently, Apir and Jos Transmission Substations have picked loads.
“Expectedly, Jos , Kaduna, Kano, and Yola Distribution Companies will now pick more loads for onward distribution to customers within their franchise areas.
“We appreciate the patience and understanding of electricity customers in the Northern axis, who were affected by the incident,” TCN said.
This cheering news is coming less than 48 hours after TCN reported that armed men invaded its ongoing construction site of 330/132/33kV transmission substation in Obajana, Kogi State on the night of 12 November, 2024 at about 11:55 pm.
According to a statement issued earlier to that effect, security report from the site said the assailants opened fire indiscriminately, causing the guards to flee. During the attack, a 150MVA 330/132/33kV power transformer, already positioned on its plinth, was struck, resulting in a burst radiator.
The vicious cycle TCN power installations vandalisation across the country in recent times has generated so much concern among stakeholders that many believe desperate saboteurs are out to set back the company, industry, and the nation at large in the struggle to achieve improved power supply.