- TCN reiterates its commitment to managing the national grid despite gas supply shortages.
- The recent grid disturbance was efficiently handled, and power was restored within 21 minutes.
- Urgent call for community vigilance to combat vandalism and protect transmission infrastructure.
On Sunday, March 31, 2024, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) reaffirmed its dedication to managing the national grid and upholding its stability despite ongoing challenges, notably the persistent gas supply shortage, which adversely affects power generation across the country.
An official statement released by Ndidi Mbah, the General Manager of Public Affairs at TCN, emphasized that the company’s vigilant grid controllers persistently work around the clock to maintain equilibrium within the grid and forestall any disruptions despite the prevailing challenges.
Notably, the recent disturbance in the grid on March 28, 2024, was efficiently managed by TCN’s adept operators, with power restoration accomplished in certain areas within a mere 21 minutes of the incident.
Acknowledging the collaborative endeavours of the Federal Government, particularly the Minister of Power, in tackling the underlying issues causing the low gas supply, TCN underscored the significance of securing a consistent and ample gas supply through engagements with Generating Companies (GenCos) and Gas Companies (GasCos) to enhance power generation.
While TCN advances efforts to stabilize gas supply, it underscores the critical importance of consistent gas availability to sustain optimal power generation and streamline grid management, thereby mitigating system disturbances.
It is imperative to note that diminished power generation significantly heightens the fragility of the grid. Apart from grappling with gas supply challenges, TCN confronts various sector-specific obstacles, some impacting other stakeholders in the value chain but invariably compromising grid stability.
Vandalism poses a persistent threat, evident from the significant incidents recorded in the first quarter of 2024 alone, where five instances disrupted transmission operations, necessitating emergency interventions, including repairs.
In severe cases, complete reconstruction of towers and replacement of transmission lines. These incidents underscore the urgent need for heightened community support and vigilance in safeguarding transmission infrastructure.
In light of recent alerts indicating a planned attack on TCN facilities in the Zuba area, TCN urges heightened vigilance, particularly within the vicinity of Zuba.
The TCN urges residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities around power facilities to uphold infrastructure integrity and ensure uninterrupted power supply.
Once again, TCN appeals to all citizens, especially those residing in close proximity to TCN towers nationwide, to collaborate in safeguarding power transmission towers and cables, thereby ensuring the resilience and reliability of the national power grid.