Precious Anga
Lagos — Residents and businesses across Bauchi, Gombe, Yola and neighbouring communities are expected to experience temporary power outages today as the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) undertakes critical maintenance work on key transmission infrastructure.
The planned outage follows the temporary shutdown of the Jos–Bauchi–Gombe 330kV transmission line to facilitate the installation of an Optical Ground Wire (OPGW), according to the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO).
In a statement, NISO said the maintenance exercise is designed to improve the operational efficiency, communication capability and reliability of the national transmission network.
“The outage is to enable the Transmission Company of Nigeria carry out the connection of the Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) on the Jos–Bauchi–Gombe 330kV transmission line,” the system operator stated.
NISO explained that electricity supply to Bauchi, Gombe, Yola and adjoining areas would be interrupted for the duration of the maintenance operation.
The agency also disclosed that the Jos–Bauchi–Gombe 132kV transmission line would be temporarily taken out of service to provide a safe working environment for engineers carrying out the installation.
According to NISO, the OPGW installation forms part of ongoing efforts to modernise Nigeria’s transmission infrastructure by improving grid monitoring, operational communication and overall system reliability.
“The installation of the Optical Ground Wire forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen transmission infrastructure and enhance the reliability, monitoring and communication capabilities of the national grid,” the statement added.
The system operator appealed to electricity consumers and market participants in the affected areas for patience and cooperation throughout the maintenance period.
“We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of electricity market participants and electricity consumers in the affected areas and regret any inconvenience the temporary interruption in electricity supply may cause,” NISO said.
The maintenance work forms part of wider efforts by the power sector to improve the stability and resilience of Nigeria’s transmission network amid increasing investments in grid modernisation and expansion.
