The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has attributed Thursday’s national grid collapse to a sudden frequency surge from 50.33Hz to 51.44Hz.
In a statement from TCN’s General Manager of Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, the incident, which occurred around 11:29 am, was described as a “disturbance,” prompting immediate recovery efforts that restored the Abuja Axis within 28 minutes.
According to Mbah, the frequency surge was triggered by issues at one of the substations, which was subsequently shut down to prevent further disruptions.
He said ongoing recovery operations aimed to fully stabilise the grid, and that the TCN anticipated that some degree of instability might persist until repairs and upgrades were finalized.
Currently, Mbah said TCN is working on critical infrastructure projects, including the repair of 330kV transmission lines along the Shiroro–Mando axis, upgrades at the Jebba Transmission Substation, and the restoration of the Ugwuaji–Apir 330kV transmission line.
“Additionally, following recommendations from an investigative report on past collapses, TCN has intensified efforts to address systemic weaknesses identified in the grid infrastructure,” he said.
Mbah further explained that TCN is committed to a comprehensive overhaul of the transmission network to bolster the grid’s stability and resilience.
“These measures include not only technical upgrades but also strategic initiatives aimed at preventing future incidents,” he added.
TCN emphasised the need for public understanding as the country navigates these disruptions, which are necessary for long-term improvements in power reliability.
TCN reiterated its commitment to improving electricity supply, acknowledging the central role stable power plays in Nigeria’s economic and social growth.
The company assured Nigerians that all necessary actions are being implemented to reinforce the grid, including addressing challenges such as infrastructure vandalism.
