Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Compensation payments are set to commence for communities affected by the construction of the Mando-Rimin Zakara 330kV transmission line, following the release of funds by the Federal Government, the Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, has announced.
TCN, in collaboration with the African Development Bank, AfDB, disclosed this during a sensitisation programme for Project Affected Persons, PAPs, held in Rimin Zakara Community, Kano State.
The event brought together traditional rulers from 25 host communities, local government officials, security agencies and other stakeholders.
Speaking at the forum, the Director of Transmission at the Federal Ministry of Power, Engr. Abinbola Ominiyi, said the project was critical to improving electricity supply and grid reliability in Kano and surrounding areas.
“This project will significantly enhance power supply in the region. We are appealing to all stakeholders to cooperate fully to ensure smooth implementation,” Ominiyi said, assuring that “adequate compensation will be paid to every affected person.”
Providing clarity on timelines, the Assistant General Manager (Transmission), Kano Region, Engr. Ibrahim Aliyu, who represented the General Manager, confirmed that government funding for compensation has already been released.
“The Federal Government has released its portion of the compensation funds, and payment is expected to commence between now and April,” Aliyu stated.
He explained that early payment was aimed at preventing project delays and ensuring community buy-in as construction activities begin.
Also speaking, a consultant with Resource Field Nigeria Limited, Mr. David Ayomide Sanni, outlined the compensation process, stressing transparency and direct payment to beneficiaries.
“Compensation will be paid by cheque directly to the beneficiaries,” Sanni said, adding that PAPs must present their BVN, NIN and relevant documents to qualify.
He further disclosed that, beyond financial compensation, affected farmers would receive farm inputs at the conclusion of the exercise, as part of livelihood restoration measures.
The Mando-Rimin Zakara 330kV line is a key transmission infrastructure project expected to strengthen the national grid, reduce load constraints and support economic activities across Kano State and the wider North-West region.
