The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) announced the successful completion of the rehabilitation and restringing of the four vandalized towers along the Jos-Gombe 330 kilo volt (kV) transmission line. This crucial line supplies bulk power to several substations in the northeast region, including Gombe, Damaturu, Maiduguri, Yola, Bauchi, and Jalingo.
In a statement signed by Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s General Manager of Public Affairs, the company detailed the efforts undertaken to address the damage caused by the vandalism, which occurred on April 23. The destruction of these towers had led to significant power outages across the affected regions.
On May 17, the North-East Governors Forum (NEGF) publicly expressed their disappointment over the prolonged blackout. TCN had initially assured NEGF that repairs would be completed by May 27, but further complications arose when one of the towers collapsed again during the re-stringing process, delaying the project.
Despite the setbacks, TCN confirmed that the restringing of conductors was completed on June 3. The company reported that contractors successfully reconnected the jumper on tower 282, making the line ready for bulk electricity transmission once more.
“Recall that when the vandalized towers were discovered on April 22, 2024, TCN promptly mobilized contractors and supervising engineers to the site to immediately commence repairs,” the statement read. “Initially, TCN had promised to complete the repairs and restore supply by May 27, 2024. However, the collapse of the fourth tower during the re-stringing process delayed the completion. The four towers have since been completed, and the line is now ready for bulk power transmission.”
TCN expressed its appreciation for the patience and support shown by the governors and the people of the northeastern region during the repair work. The company reiterated its commitment to ensuring reliable power supply and thanked all stakeholders for their cooperation and understanding throughout the reconstruction process.