TCN Announces Planned Maintenance Leading to Power Interruptions in Abuja and Surrounding Areas
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced a scheduled maintenance exercise set to take place over the weekend, which will result in temporary power outages across several parts of Abuja and its environs. This maintenance initiative, aimed at ensuring the optimal functioning of critical infrastructure, underscores TCN’s commitment to improving power supply reliability nationwide.
Details of the Planned Maintenance
In a detailed statement released on Saturday, December 28, 2024, Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s General Manager, Public Affairs, outlined the specifics of the maintenance activities. Two major transmission substations will be the focus of the exercise:
- Gwagwalada 330/132/33kV Transmission Substation
Scheduled for Saturday, December 28, between 9 am and 1 pm, maintenance activities at this substation will involve servicing a 60MVA power transformer and its associated switchgear. As a result, residents of Gwagwalada and its surrounding areas will experience a four-hour power outage during this period. - Kukwaba 132/33kV Transmission Substation
On Sunday, December 29, maintenance will continue at the Kukwaba substation from 9 am to 10 pm. This exercise will lead to power interruptions in key areas, including Wuye, EFCC, Federal Medical Centre, Coca-Cola, Idu Railway Station, Citec, and Life Camp.
Impact and Customer Advisory
TCN has assured customers that every effort is being made to minimize disruptions and complete the maintenance within the stipulated timeframes. The company has apologized for any inconvenience the outages may cause, especially during the festive season when electricity demand tends to spike.
“We sincerely regret any disruptions this may cause to the daily activities of residents and businesses in the affected areas. However, these maintenance activities are critical to improving the operational efficiency of our equipment and ensuring a more stable power supply in the future,” Mbah stated.
The company has also encouraged residents and businesses to make adequate preparations to mitigate the effects of the temporary power interruptions.
Why the Maintenance Is Essential
The scheduled maintenance is part of TCN’s proactive strategy to enhance the reliability and efficiency of Nigeria’s power grid. With the yuletide season driving an increase in electricity demand, the company emphasizes that these interventions are necessary to sustain long-term energy stability.
According to TCN, such periodic maintenance reduces the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns, which could cause more prolonged outages and greater inconvenience. The work being carried out at the Gwagwalada and Kukwaba substations is particularly significant, as these facilities serve as critical nodes in Abuja’s electricity distribution network.
Addressing Concerns Amid Seasonal Demand
The timing of the maintenance during the festive season has raised concerns among residents and businesses, many of whom rely heavily on uninterrupted power supply for celebrations and commerce. However, TCN reassures stakeholders that the decision was made with a view to long-term benefits, rather than risking potential system failures due to deferred maintenance.
Energy experts have also weighed in, highlighting the importance of preventive maintenance in ensuring the integrity of transmission equipment. “While the timing may seem inconvenient, proactive maintenance like this is crucial. It’s better to have brief, planned outages than face unexpected blackouts during a critical time of year,” noted an industry analyst.
Steps Towards Improved Power Infrastructure
This planned maintenance is one of many initiatives by TCN aimed at modernizing Nigeria’s power infrastructure. Over the past year, the company has intensified efforts to upgrade transmission lines, replace outdated equipment, and expand capacity to meet growing energy demands.
As part of its broader strategy, TCN has been engaging with stakeholders across the power sector, including distribution companies, policymakers, and consumers, to create a more resilient and efficient energy ecosystem.
Looking Ahead
As the maintenance exercise unfolds, TCN has assured the public of its commitment to delivering reliable power supply upon completion. The company’s focus on preventive maintenance and infrastructure upgrades reflects a larger vision of transforming Nigeria’s power sector to meet international standards.
Residents and businesses affected by this weekend’s outages can expect normal power supply to resume promptly after the maintenance activities are completed. TCN has expressed gratitude for the understanding and cooperation of its customers, reaffirming that these efforts are part of a broader commitment to sustainable energy delivery.
This maintenance exercise, though temporary in its inconvenience, represents a crucial step forward in Nigeria’s journey toward a stable, efficient, and reliable power supply for all.
