Issue no.

31 September 2021
SEPTEMBER 2021
 2020
mber
Dece

21
 EDITOR’S
NOTE

To transmit electricity in a most

MISSION efficient and effective manner VISION
MISSION To be one of the leading electricity
transmission companiesin the world

·Integrity
·Customer Focus
CORE VALUES
MISSION ·Transparency
·TeamWork
·Sustainability
·Professionalism ·Safety
NEW MINISTER
A
n accomplished Engineer, a Fellow of the
Nigerian Society of Engineers and a member
of the Council for the Regulation of
Engineering in Nigeria (COREN). The irresistible
lure for public service led to his appointment as the
Deputy Governor of Yobe State for an unblemished
period of ten and half (10.5) years. Also served as
overseeing Commissioner of Health, Commerce,
Integrated Rural Development as well as Chairman
of several high-level priority task forces and
committees in the State.
Engr Abubakar D. Aliyu hails from Yobe, Potiskum
Local Government Area of Yobe State. An engineer
by profession. Mr Abubakar Aliyu attended Central
Primary School Jimeta, where he had his First
School Leaving Certificate in 1979, and proceeded
to GSSS Monguno in Borno State where he obtained
his West African School Certificate in 1984. He then
attended Kaduna state Polytechnic where he got a
National Diploma (ND) in Civil Engineering in 1988
and HND in High Ways and Transportation
Engineering in 1993. In 1999 he obtained his
Bachelor of Engineering in Civil and Water
Resources Engineering from the University of
Maiduguri. He is currently a Fellow in the Nigerian
Society of Engineers.
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
Engr Abubakar Aliyu had worked as a Technical Officer in
Borno State Ministry of Works in 1988 to 1991; he became
the Principal Engineer and also Head of Engineering
Department in 2004, Supervising Project Engineers Yobe
State Ministry of Housing in 2007, Managing Director, Yobe
State Housing and Property Development Corporation in
2009, Overseer State Ministry of Health Yobe State,
Overseer State Ministry of Commerce Yobe State, Overseer
State Ministry of Integrated Rural Development Yobe State
and Deputy Governor Yobe State form 2009 to 2019.
CHAIRMANSHIP OF STATE TASK FORCES AND
COMMITTEE
* * State Task Force on Immunization and Primary
Healthcare
* State Committee on Resettlement and Rehabilitation of
Internally Displaced Persons
* State Boundary Committee
* State Environmental Committee
* State Sanitation Committee
AWARDS
* Distinguished Service Award by Thinkers Magazine
* Meritorious Service Award by the Task Force on
Immunization and PHC
* Best Deputy Governor of the Decade Award by North East
Star Magazine
NEW MINISTER
NEW POWER MINISTER URGES STAKEHOLDER COOPERATION,
HARPS ON HONESTY AND DEDICATION
T
he Honorable Minister of
Power, Engr. Abubakar D.
Aliyu, (FNSE) has urged
staff of the Ministry and Power
sector stakeholders to cooperate
and work together as a team to
ensure that steady electricity
supply is delivered to Nigerians.
He also declared his commitment
to adding value to efforts made
towards boosting electricity
supply across the country.
Engr. Aliyu gave this charge
during his first meeting with the
Permanent Secretary Ministry of
Power, Directors of the Ministry,
and Heads of Agencies of the
Federal Ministry of Power on
assumption of office, on Monday,
6th September 2021, at the
Power House in Abuja.
He enjoined employees of the
Ministry to display high level of
honesty and dedication to duty,
given the critical nature of the
sector to the nation's
development. According to him, “I
want to urge everyone from the
Permanent Secretary down the
ladder to the cleaners to be
dedicated and committed to duty.
Middle; Minister of Power, Engr, Abubakar Aliyu with Power Stakeholders
I know you have all done a lot, I
am here to assist you".
The Minister further explained
that the power sector is very key
and touches the lives of about 200
million Nigerians, therefore it was
an enormous responsibility
invested on all power sector
workers and stakeholders to
ensure a steady supply of power
to the populace.
According to the Honorable
Minister, he was deployed to the
Ministry of Power to add value to
the system and is determined to
ensure that the sector moves
forward. He charged all
stakeholders to work together in
honesty and commitment and
warned against acts capable of
causing loss of trust and
confidence.
In his goodwill message, the
Honorable Minister of Water
Resources Engr. Suleiman
Adamu who accompanied the
new Minister of Power, said that
the Ministry of Water Resources
would partner with the Ministry of
Power to deliver electricity to
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Grace Sambe-Jauro
Nigerians, adding that the
Minister of Power is a
professional and thus equal to the
task and mandate that has been
given to him by the President. He
called on all the staff of the
Ministry and agencies under the
Ministry of Power to join hands
with the new Minister to deliver
quality electricity to Nigerians.
Speaking earlier, the former
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of
Power, Mr. William Alo who
received the new Minister
expressed delight at his
appointment and assured him of
the cooperation of all staff of the
Ministry and its agencies to make
his tenure worthwhile and
successful.
The occasion which was
organized to receive the Minister
upon assumption of office was
attended by Directors, Heads of
Agencies under the Federal
Ministry of Power, and other
stakeholders in the Power Sector.
TOWNHALL MEETING September 2021/ ISSUE 31

POWER SECTOR LOSES INSTALLATIONS,

REVENUE TO VANDALS

By Ndidi Mbah

T
ransmission Company of
Nigeria (TCN) has lost
about 1.17-billion-naira
revenue on the vandalized
Damaturu – Maiduguri
transmission line from January
26th to September 24th, 2021,
translating to an average energy
loss of 840Maga Watts Hour per
day for the period. The Company
also lost 880 million naira to the
destruction of eight (8) 330kV
towers brought down by
insurgents within the same
period.

The Minister of Power, Engr.

Abubakar D. Aliyu, FNSE,
represented by the Ag. Managing
Director and CEO of
Transmission Company of
Nigeria (TCN) Engr. Dr. Sule
Abdulaziz disclosed this during
the Annual Town Hall Meeting in
Maiduguri, Borno State capital,
organized by the Federal Ministry
of Information and Culture to
address the nagging issue of
vandalism of power and
telecommunications
infrastructure in the country. He
further revealed that as of
September 17th, 2021, TCN had
completed five new towers and
associated transmission lines,
awaiting energization, when
insurgents brought down another
two transmission towers at Auno
Village the next day, making it
impossible to energize the
rehabilitated line.
Speaking further on the issue, the
Minister noted that from the gas
pipelines to the transmission lines
and towers to distribution
infrastructure nationwide,
vandalism is a reoccurring
Ag. MD/CEO TCN, Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz
decimal that has seriously
affected efforts by the present
administration to put in place a
more robust grid. Consequently,
funds budgeted for rehabilitation
and expansion of the nation's grid
have to be used for the repair and
restoration of vandalized
installations of the grid.
This challenge, he said, has
become a national
embarrassment, and there is the
urgent need for stakeholders to
work together to find solutions
against the backdrop of a
deliberate effort by the present
administration to ensure the
provision of adequate
infrastructure in addition to
rehabilitating existing ones for a
more robust electricity network.
He noted that on the Maiduguri
axis, the bulk transmission of
power through Damaturu –
Maiduguri 330kV line, and the
Damboa – Maiduguri 132kV
transmission lines and some
parts of the North East is also
affecting power distribution
through Yola DisCo. Moreover,
reconnection or repair work
constantly exposes TCN
Engineers and contractors to
danger and constitutes a drain on
revenue and funds meant for grid
expansion.
The Honorable Minister further
disclosed that several
installations in other parts of the
country are also not spared by
vandals. Examples of such
widespread acts of vandalism
include Lambatta Village near
Suleja, where two towers were
vandalized in 1996 and along
Benin-Ikeja West, two towers
were vandalized in December
2002 disrupting supply to Lagos.
NEW MINISTER
In the same manner in August
2015, a tower in Oronta village in
Abia State was brought down by
vandals. In Umuahia, ten drums
of aluminum conductors were
carted away by vandals disrupting
the erection of a new tower. Also,
the Escravos – Lagos pipeline
was blasted by vandals,
disrupting gas supply to over six
power generation stations in the
western part of the country in
2016, among others.
The Honourable Minister
suggested that the challenge
posed by vandals can be tackled
through extensive public
enlightenment, which would
ensure that the general public,
especially the host communities,
understand their role in the
protection of power
infrastructures. According to him,
when people see themselves as
part-owners of power assets, they
will be more committed to
partnering with the government to
check the vandals.
Engr. Aliyu also suggested that
m o d e r n e l e c t r o n i c
security/surveillance equipment
that can detect and monitor
installations using radio
frequency signals should be
deployed, while security agencies
L-R, Ag. MD/CEO TCN, Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz, Minister of Information and Cultiure, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, and Commissioner,
Technical Services, NCC, Engr. Ubale Ahmed
must ensure that no market exists
for the sale or purchase of
vandalized electrical equipment
in the country. This, he said,
should be backed up by
appropriate legislation with stiff
penalties. In this regard, he
advised that the Nigerian Police
A n t i - E l e c t r i c i t y Va n d a l i s m
Response Squad, the Nigerian
Security and Civil Defense Corps
as well as DisCos /TCN should
work together to help contain the
menace.
Also commenting on measures to
improve power supply in the
Maiduguri axis, the Honourable
Minister opined that executing
embedded generation such as
the proposed NNPC 50MW gas
power plant, solar farm, or wind
farm, could ameliorate the effect
of power outage within Maiduguri.
Earlier, in his opening address,
the Minister of Information and
Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed,
said that the scale of vandalism is
worse than we can imagine
affecting not just the
telecommunication and power
sector, but also railway tracks,
bridge railings, and critical
aviation powered infrastructure,
which ultimately impacts
negatively on the economic
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
development of the country.
He tasked the communities
hosting these installations to
intensify effort and devise
methods that will help them
protect the installations, noting
that there was need for more
vigilance to enable the arrest and
prosecution of culprits and people
who engage in buying or selling
these items.
A l s o s p e a k i n g d u r i n g th e
program, the Governor of Borno
State, Professor Baba-Gana
Zulum said that the choice of
Maiduguri as the venue for the
meeting could not have been
more appropriate, with the
increased spate of vandalism of
electricity infrastructure by
insurgents, especially on the
Damaturu and Demboa axis,
which has brought untold
hardship to the people.
He enumerated efforts of the
State Government in
collaboration with the Ministry of
Power, TCN, and NNPC to
restore power to the State, in the
short run, to ameliorate the
suffering of the people through
the NNPC 50MW embedded
generation.
WAPP
WAPP HOLDS 51ST EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING
Middle: The Chairman of West African Power Pool (WAPP) Executive Board/Ag. MD-CEO of the
Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz, addressing the 51st edition of
the WAPP Executive Board Meeting in Cotonou, Republic of Benin.
T
he West African Power Pool
(WAPP) has held its 51st
Board Meeting in Cotonou,
the Republic of Benin on 25th
September, 2021. The meeting
was hybrid in nature with physical
and virtual attendance of the
members in observance of
COVID -19 protocols.
Addressing the meeting, the
Chairman of the WAPP Executive
Board / Ag. MD-CEO of TCN,
Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz said that
the 51st WAPP Executive Board
Meeting was convened
essentially to review and adopt
the certified 2020 Financial
Statements as well as the 2022
Budget and Work Programme of
WAPP. He intimated the Board
that the financial statements had
been duly audited and certified by
External Auditors.
The Chairman commended the
WAPP Secretariat for the diligent
pursuit of project execution in the
Pool and expressed confidence in
the efforts of the WAPP team. He
also noted that the institution was
working hard towards achieving
the collective goal of the Pool in
line with the aspirations of its
founding fathers.
Commenting on the need for
prompt payment of dues, the
Chairman acknowledged the
global effect of COVID-19
pandemic on businesses
generally, and suggested that the
yearly contributions by member-
utilities should not be increased to
avoid the further burdening of
businesses. Against this
background, he further directed
that efforts should be intensified in
recovering debts owed by
defaulting utilities.
Engr. Dr. Abdulaziz expressed
gratitude to the Government and
the people of Benin Republic for
the warm welcome and hospitality
accorded the WAPP Board
Members who were in the country
for the meeting and for creating an
enabling environment for WAPP
operations.
Speaking earlier, the Secretary
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Ndidi Mbah
General of WAPP, Apollinaire
Siengui KI explained that the
Financial Statement for year 2020
was made up of the consolidated
statements of various projects
carried out by WAPP through the
financing made available by
WAPP Technical and Financial
partners. He also noted that the
Programme of Activities for the
year 2022, was rigorously drawn
up in conjunction with the
Financial Committee taking into
cognisance the current global
financial situation due to the
COVID-19 pandemic.
He introduced the new members
of the WAPP Executive Board
whom he said were the newly
appointed Managing Directors of
Ci-Energies of Cote d'Ivoire and
GRIDCO of Ghana. He also
informed the Board that he had
taken out time to update the new
members on the activities of
WAPP and the stage of project
execution.
Apollinaire KI noted that the
performance of WAPP, in terms of
project execution, had increased
with more inflow from the financial
partners. The meeting noted that
some WAPP Utilities were no
longer participating in meetings
as well as paying their dues to the
regional body. A team was
constituted to contact them for
further discussions with the view
to reintegrating them into the
Pool.
MINISTER OF POWER
Minister of Power, Calls for Coordination
between GENCOS and DISCOS
T
he Honourable Minister of
Power, Engr. Abubakar D.
Aliyu, FNSE has called for
coordination between the Federal
Ministry of Power and players in
the electricity value chain in the
implementation of their core
mandates for effective service
delivery and optimal power supply
to Nigerians.
The Minister made this call during
an interactive meeting with Power
Generation Companies
(GenCos), and Power Distribution
Companies (DisCos), on Tuesday
28th September 2021, in Abuja.
In his address, the Minister
expressed dismay at the way
players in the electricity value
chain were operating
independently, and stressed the
need for the GenCos, DisCos,
and Transmission Company of
Nigeria (TCN), to work in synergy
in order to tackle the epileptic
power situation in the country.
“We need to interact, we need to
know what each other is doing, we
need to help one another, we
need to lift one another, we need
to have our full loyalty to the
system, we need to help the
system,” he said.
According to him, his study of the
electricity sector in Nigeria has
revealed the need to rescript and
change the approach on how
things are done in the entire value
chain, adding that GenCos, TCN,
and DisCos are all part of the
same system and when one fails
to deliver the entire power sector
has failed to deliver, irrespective
of their individual mandates in the
sector.
“We are linked together, we are
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By: Grace Sambe-Jauro
supposed to be a chain an, on, and let us come out with a
unbroken one; a chain is clear pathway to achieving
supposed to be very strong, but success”.
once there is a weakness in the
connection it becomes weak. We In response, a Representative of
need to come together, and x-ray the GenCos Engr. Lamu Audu
where our weaknesses are, to MD/CEO of Mainstream Energy,
enable us to give back to our congratulated the Minister on his
people,” he stressed. appointment and commended
him for hitting the ground running
Engr. Aliyu further stated that the and acquainting himself with the
Nigerian electricity industry has sector within a short time. He went
the manpower, resources, and on to highlight infrastructure
competence to change the deficit, liquidity shortfall amongst
negative perception of the others are challenges affecting
industry. He also disclosed that the sector.
new strategies are to be
developed in order to actualize He counselled that whatever
the increase of power supply in policy the Government will adopt
the nation. He solicited the should attract investors, and
commitment and loyalty of all encourage operators to do more
players in the sector to the cause for the power sector.
of providing adequate, safe,
reliable and affordable electricity
to Nigerians, while pledging his
readiness to work with them
through getting
necessary backing
from the Government
in achieving a clear
pathway to success.
The Minister equally
disclosed his
intention to maintain
an open-door policy
to avail everyone the
opportunity to Group photograph of the minister of power with GenCos
contribute their ideas
and quota to the new
paradigm and also
present their
challenges for his
consideration. , He
e n j o i n e d
stakeholders to work
together, saying, “if
you have any
contribution or
suggestion, bring it Group photograph of the minister of power with GenCos
MIN. OF POWER
MINISTER OF POWER MEETS WITH
TCN MANAGEMENT TEAM
T
he Minister of Power, Engr.
Abubakar Aliyu, has called
on all power sector
stakeholders to embrace
constant dialogue among
themselves as a strategy in
fostering collaborative
relationships between
generation, transmission and
distribution companies for
efficient service delivery.
Engr. Aliyu, made the call during a
meeting with Management of
Transmission Company of
Nigeria (TCN), who briefed him on
the present status, prospects and
achievements of the Company
from May 2020 till date, recently in
Abuja.
In his presentation to the Minister,
the Ag. Managing Director/ Chief
Executive Officer of TCN, Engr.
Dr. Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz, , said
TCN's areas of priority was the
implementation of the Nigeria
Electricity Grid Maintenance,
Expansion and Rehabilitation
Program (NEGMERP) with the
program developmental objective
of delivering quality bulk
electricity supply to Distribution
Load Centers, while giving equal
attention to all transmission lines
and substation projects across
the country.
According to him, other areas of
priority include the Improvement
of Internally Generated Revenue
(IGR) to strengthen the
Company's ability to meet its
obligations, Service Level
Mechanism Development,
positioning itself to better serve
the GenCos, DisCos, Eligible
Customers and international
customers, human capacity
development and staff welfare
and general improvement in
operational systems and
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Kazah Bili Aaku
processes.
Engr. Abdulaziz also mentioned
other milestones recorded by the
Company in the last two years to
include the creation of a peaceful
atmosphere for industrial
harmony between the two in-
house Unions and a harmonious
working environment for staff,
which has led to increased
productivity.
He also explained that within the
last two years TCN had
developed cordial relationships
with GenCos and DisCos, and
consider them critical
stakeholders using a more
collaborative approach through
dialogue, interface meetings and
accommodating service level
thresholds with DisCos.
MINISTER OF POWER
He said TCN has Improved its
capacity for International
Procurement and Project
Management by training several
members of staff to drive projects
implementation. Upgrade has
also been achieved in the areas of
repairs of major equipment such
as Power Transformers and
system studies to guide decisions
on System expansion and
upgrade.
Engr. Abdulaziz highlighted a
number of TCN completed
projects within the last two years
to include; the Construction of
2x60MVA, 132/33kV Substation
at Gagarawa, Jigawa State,
Construction of 2x30MVA,
132/33kV Substation at Yelwa
Yauri, Construction of Ikorodu-
Odogunyan-Shagamu 132kV
double circuit transmission line
and the Construction of
2x60MVA, 132/33kV Substation
at Agu-Awka, Anambra State.
Others are; Reinforcement of
Ogba TS, Lagos State with
1 X 1 0 0 M VA T r a n s f o r m e r ,
Reinforcement of Ikeja West TS,
Lagos State with 1X300MVA
Transformer, Reinforcement of
Rumosi, Rivers State with 1X60
MVA Transformer, Reinforcement
of Okene TS, Lagos State with
1 X 4 0 M VA T r a n s f o r m e r ,
Reinforcement of Iseyin TS,
Lagos State with 1X40 MVA
Transformer and the
Reconductoring 140km Birni-
Kebbi-Sokoto line 330/132kV.
He also informed that TCN now
has a responsive and expedient
maintenance culture and has
procured spare parts for the
Central Store to sustain effective
Cross section of participants
maintenance. TCN, he said, has
also commenced the process of
decentralizing the central store for
easy access by regional offices
and has equally undertaken
massive trace clearing.
Engr. Abdulaziz said that for
efficient service delivery the new
Kano Region, was created from
Kaduna Region and four Work
Centres upgraded to Sub-
Regions in Dutse, Gwagwalada,
Ganmo and Katsina. He added
that seven (7) new work centres
were also created in Akure,
Asaba, Ihovbor, Kontagora,
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
Jalingo and Uyo.
On general improvement in
operational systems and
processes, the Ag. MD/CEO said
that TCN has commenced the
deployment of Automatic Meter
Reading System to improve
efficiency and transparency of
Market data administration,
secured funding for
implementation of Enterprise
Resource Planning (ERP) to
improve internal business
processes and accountability,
acquired system planning
software for studies to facilitate
efficient and scientific decisions
related to network development
and the deployment of processes
to implement the Service Level
Tariff Order among others.
He intimated the Minister that the
efforts initiated to achieve
effective grid management by
TCN have resulted in, multiple all-
time peak generation in the last
15 months with the highest peak
generation of 5,801.60MW on 1st
March, 2021.
 RETREAT
TCN Head Tasks Staff on Synergy to
Sustain Power Transmission Milestones
Ag. MD/CEO TCN, Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz
T
he Ag. Managing Director and Chief Executive
Officer of Transmission Company of Nigeria
(TCN), Engr. Dr. Sule A. Abdulaziz has tasked
Management staff with developing more synergy
towards sustaining the Company’s milestones and
moving it to a higher level of efficiency.
Engr. Dr. Abdulaziz gave the charge while addressing
Executive Directors, General Managers, and Regional
Heads of TCN, at the opening session of the TCN
Management Retreat held at the Ibom Icon Hotel and
Golf Resort, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State recently.
Speaking on the theme, "Managing Change in a
Renewed Organization", Engr. Abdulaziz said the
retreat was aimed at achieving the strategic objective
of giving TCN a new direction to enable it occupy its
pride of place within the context of the electricity market
in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), and
the West African sub-region.
According to him, “You will agree with me that so much
change has occurred both in our organization and the
marketplace that requires us to redouble our efforts to
page 2
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Ndidi Mbah
ensure that we move TCN to the next level in
operational efficiency.” He emphasized that this is
even more so at this time when the President Buhari-
led administration is determined to reverse the deficit
in power supply in the country.
He commended the Management staff for their
contributions towards achieving the significant
milestones TCN has recorded so far. In his words,
“together, we have expanded TCN's capacity and also
brought a measure of stability and discipline to the
grid. We have substantially upgraded our facilities and
can evacuate more bulk electricity to distribution load
centers nationwide”. Engr. Abdulaziz, however,
cautioned that the team must not rest on its oars as
there was much more to be done for the strategic
repositioning of TCN. He encouraged every
participant to continue to work hard as emerging
challenges will constantly test staff capacity to
innovate.
Shortly before declaring the retreat open, he noted
that the program afforded the participants a platform
to synergize and improve teamwork. According to
RETREAT
Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State with TCN management team
him, “high on my expectations is also the building of a
team that will not only appreciate the benefits of
teamwork but also embrace high management
performance through facilitation, communication, and
collaborative relationships.”
Governor’s Visit
While welcoming TCN staff to Uyo for the retreat, His
Excellency Emmanuel Udom, the Akwa Ibom State
Governor, said that the retreat was an avenue for TCN
to synergize and restrategize, to enable it do more for
the nation and Akwa Ibom specifically. He stressed the
need for teamwork to support the Ag. Managing
Director/CEO to ensure the actualization of TCN goals.
According to him, “Food is to the body, what power is to
the economy”, without power, there would be no
industrialization. He posited that the power sector can
make much difference to the nation and that Akwa Ibom
State was looking forward to more collaboration with
TCN to help it achieve its goal of providing electricity for
its inhabitants in line with its “Power for All” initiative by
the end of December 2021. He said that presently, the
nation's power sector ought to be distributing between
35,000MW to 50,000MW and challenged TCN to drive
the needed change that will increase the sector output.
The Governor noted that Akwa Ibom State alone sits on
approximately 36.1% of the nation's gas reserves and
that gas flared in the State can generate over
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
35000MW of electricity. He opined that great effort
is required to utilize these resources for power
generation to shore up supply.
TCN, in conjunction with power sector players,
should be challenged to find a solution to the
nation's power sector issues. Solving the power
sector challenges he said, would translate to
solving about 50% of the nation's challenges. This
is because developmental projects are linked to
power availability.
Responding, the Ag. MD/CEO said that TCN was
gradually expanding the transmission network
nationwide. In Akwa Ibom State specifically, he said
that TCN has several ongoing projects such as; the
Double Circuit (DC) 123kV transmission line from
ALSCON to Ibom Power with a switching station to
link the GIS at ALSCON with BAY extensions at
Ibom Power; Construction of ORON 2x60MVA
132/33kV Substation, reconductoring the ABA - ITU
132kV transmission line as well as the 132kV Eket -
Oron DC transmission line.
COMMISSIONING
VICE PRESIDENT COMMISSIONS 2x 60MVA AGU AWKA
TRANSMISSION SUBSTATION
….Says Anambra is the fastest-growing manufacturing hub in Nigeria
Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo
T
he Vice President of the
Federal Republic of
N i g e r i a , P r o f . Ye m i
Osinbajo, has said that the
living environment and the ease
of doing business in Anambra
State has made the State to be
one of the fastest-growing
manufacturing hubs in the
c o u n t r y, h o u s i n g k e y
manufacturing industries such
as Innoson Motors and
Chicason Group among others.
Vice President Osinbajo, who
made this remark while
commissioning the new 2 x 60
MVA 132/33kV Sub-Station in
Agu Awka, Anambra State, on
24th August 2021, noted that
rapid economic growth in the
State and the attendant
increase in the demand for
electricity, necessitated an
earlier installation of a 40MVA,
132/33kV Mobile Transformer
Substation by the Transmission
Company of Nigeria (TCN) in
Awka to augment the available
bulk supply to Enugu DisCo load
centers in that axis.
The new Agu Awka 2x60MVA
132/33kV Substation, executed
by the Niger Delta Power Holding
(NDPHC), has further increased
transmission capability in Awka
b y 9 6 M W, c o m p l i m e n t i n g
available bulk transmission
capacity.
He said that the additional
transmission capacity will help
drive industrial growth and boost
commercial activities that would
positively impact employment
and socio-economic upliftment of
residents in the state.
The Executive Governor of
Anambra State, Willie Obiano,
expressed delight at the
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Mary Philips-Udom
completion and energizing of the
substation, noting that the substation
would also supply power to the newly
built International Cargo Airport as
well as remove the burden of
purchasing diesel for business from
industrialists within the state, thereby
reducing the cost of production.
He further noted that the project
would complement other completed
State Government power
intervention projects such as the
extension of the 33kV line
connecting six local government
areas with about 82 local
communities. He revealed that the
State Government is already
partnering with TCN to construct six
additional transmission substations
which will help extend electricity
supply to many more communities
within the state and its environs.
Earlier in his remarks, the Managing
Director of Niger Delta Power
COMMISSIONING September 2021/ ISSUE 31

Holding Company Ltd, Mr. Chiedu Ugbo said that the companies, he emphasized.
high demand for power supply in Awka and indeed
Anambra State was the reason behind the new Mr. Ugbo explained that the new Awka Substation is
substation project. connected to 33kV feeders enabling a robust power
evacuation by Enugu Electricity Distribution Company
He commended Nigerian engineers for executing (EEDC) to different areas in Anambra State.
the project from inception. According to him, the
project was successfully executed from inception to
energizing and commissioning exclusively by
Nigerians. The engineering procurement and
construction contractor and the project consultant
team are wholly Nigerian power engineering

Middle, VP, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, flanked by the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Mr.Willie Obaino
and MD NDPHC, Mr. Chiedu Ugbo

The new 2x60MVA 132/33kV Substation at Group photograph

Agu Awka, Amnambra State
 AFD
TCN, AFD DISCUSS AFD FUNDED PROJECTS AND OTHER
AREAS OF COLLABORATION
W
orried by the delay in the
implementation of some
critical transmission
infrastructure in the country, the
Management of TCN met with the
new Country Director of Agenc
Francaise De Developpment
(AFD), Mr. Xavier Muron, to ensure
that his tenure witnesses the
completion of AFD funded
transmission projects in Nigeria.
The Ag. Managing Director and
Chief Executive Officer of TCN,
Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz, gave the
charge when Mr. Xavier Muron,
paid a familiarization visit to TCN
Management on Wednesday, 29th
September 2021, in Abuja.
Engr. Abdulaziz who welcomed the
new AFD helmsman in Nigeria to
TCN Corporate Headquarters,
expressed TCN’s readiness to
page 4
partner with him to succeed. “We
believe your tenure will be
successful and that you would
bring to the job your vast
experience in projects execution
to ensure that AFD financed
projects are completed on time.
We also believe that as we
collaborate more effectively,
challenges would be dealt with
more effectively in a way that
would ensure the projects are not
affected”.
Speaking further on the need to
fast-track the completion of AFD
projects, the Executive Director,
Transmission Service Provider
(TSP), Engr. Victor Adewumi,
emphasized the need for timely
completion of Abuja Ring Project
irrespective of issues that
emanated between contractors,
AFD and TCN.
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Eric Ephraim Ene
According to him, “There is no
project that doesn't have any
issues, but our ability to solve
these issues and move on
quickly is what matters as
managers. We want to see how
we can quickly resolve issues
around this project to ensure
that the project is completed on
time”.
Engr. Adewumi, however,
appreciated AFD for sponsoring
this project in Abuja, and noted
that Abuja as the capital city of
Nigeria was already deficit in
terms of energy supply because
of growth in population and
increase in economy activities,
hence, the project needed to be
completed and put into use.
 AFD
In his remarks, the General
Manager (Programme
Coordination), TCN, Engr. Joseph
Ciroma, solicited AFD’s support to
TCN in the area of capacity
development. “We have a lot of
engineers in TCN, accountants
and other professionals and you
know Engineering is a dynamic
profession. Things are changing
rapidly so we want a situation
where AFD can come in, in order
for our engineers to be able to
compete with other engineers all
over the world” he said.
Engr. Ciroma further stated that
though the Abuja Ring project
which is trying to improve the
northern corridor was almost 95%
ready, the area of improvement
with such magnitude of project
running without the Letter of Credit
has affected the growth of this
project and noted that millions of
dollars in ordering these
page 4
transformers before they are
reimbursed, is quite challenging.
In his response, the new Country
Director of AFD, Mr. Xavier Muron,
assured that AFD will continued to
partner with TCN for the benefit of
Nigerians. “So far I understand
“
...there is no project that doesn't
have any issues, but our ability
to solve these issues and move
on quickly is what matters as
managers. We want to see how
we can quickly resolve issues
around this project to ensure
that the project is completed
on time
“
Group photograph
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
that this partnership is quite
fruitful. It is very fruitful and I
hope that during my time we will
be able to do a bit more
together, I have no doubt. I am
here to introduce myself and
also to understand from your
side where you currently are,
and where you want AFD to
focus on, where you want AFD
to work more closely with you”
he said.
He also enjoined TCN
Management to share with
AFD, areas of priority that would
enable them align their
technical and financial plans for
TCN projects.
 IPECON
FG TO PROVIDE ELECTRICITY TO OVER
1.5 MILLION HOUSEHOLDS BY 2022
Head, Investment and Sector Development Department of the Ministry of Power,
Mr. James Pilakyaa
T
he Federal Government has
disclosed plans to provide
adequate electricity supply
to over 1.5 million households,
through the exploitation of the
country's energy mix potential of
Solar, Wind, Biomass, Gas as well
as small and large Hydroelectric
power generating plants, by the
year 2022.
The former Minister of Power,
E n g r. S a l e M a m m a n , w h o
disclosed this while delivering a
paper titled "National or Regional
Grid, Best Way Forward for
Nigeria" during the International
Power Engineering Exhibition and
Conference (IPECON), held at the
Nile University of Nigeria on 2nd
August 2021, in Abuja, said that
though the Nigerian energy mix
targets are desirable, the prospect
of success remains bleak due to
financial constraints, pricing policy
page 4
and lack of policy coordination.
The former Minister who was
represented by the Head,
Investment and Sector
Development Department of the
Ministry of Power, Mr. James
Pilakyaa, said that to improve
electricity supply in Nigeria and
also address barriers to the
achievement of the energy mix
target, it would be necessary to
address the multifaceted issues of
payment risk, power sector
investment financing, as well as
improve the pricing and tariff
structure, gas pricing and market
regulation.
He commended the efforts of
IPECON on the choice of the Nile
University to host the annual
conference and exhibition and
also encouraged student
engineers to endeavor to always
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Kazah Bili Akau
be part of such conferences as it
is an opportunity for knowledge
transfer.
In his goodwill message, the
Acting Managing Director/Chief
Executive Officer of
Transmission Company of
Nigeria (TCN), Engr. Dr. Sule
Ahmed Abdulaziz, who was
represented by the General
M a n a g e r, R e s e a r c h a n d
Development, TCN, Engr. Tom
Inogonum, assured that TCN
would always support IPECON
and share ideas regarding
electric power delivery as well
as encourage, and welcome
constructive criticisms and
analysis of faults in the TCN
network.
He recommended that other
universities should borrow a
leaf from the collaboration
between Nile University and
IPECON in jointly organizing
such conferences, and advised
that exchange programs should
be undertaken between
industries/companies and
skilled academia in universities.
The President of the Nigerian
Institute of Power Engineers
(NIPE), Engr. Israel Abraham,
earlier in his welcome address
explained that the conference
was designed to be a proactive,
proficient, and solution-focused
peer-review session where
issues are broken down and the
details of projected issues
brought to the fore to constitute
a knowledge base for further
discourse and research.
IPCON September 2021/ ISSUE 31

He further appealed to participants

to freely contribute to the success
of the conference as past IPECON
outcomes have given birth to
landmark interventions, new
policies and orientations,
especially in the Nigerian Electric
Supply Industry (NESI).

GM (R&D) TCN, Dr. Tom Inugonum during his presentation

Cross section of participants

My GRANDFATHER once told me that

there are two kinds of people;
those who do the work and those who
take the credit. He told me to try to be in
the first group; there is less competition there.
PERM SEC
PERMANENT SECRETARY, FEDERAL MINISTRY OF POWER
N
ebeolisa Anako was born
on 5th August, 1964. He
has a Bachelor of
Engineering (B.Eng. Hons.)
Degree in Civil Engineering (1986)
from the Anambra State University
of Technology, Enugu and a Master
of Science (M.Sc.) Degree (1989)
in Construction Management from
the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
In 1988, he started his professional
career in the Private Sector as a
Design Engineer in an Engineering
Consultancy Firm in Kano.
Subsequently, he joined a Building
and Engineering Contracting firm,
and was the Project Engineer for
the Construction of Kwara State
High Court Ilorin, and Completion
of the Kano State House of
Assembly Complex.
He joined the Federal Civil Service
as an Executive Engineer Grade 1
with the Federal Highways
Department of the Federal Ministry
of Works and Housing on 1st
August 1989; and rose through the
Engr. Nebeolisa Anako, FNSE
ranks to execute several landmark
highway and bridge projects for the
Ministry, as head of the projects
(Engineer's Representative, and
Federal Controller of Works). He
subsequently became the Director,
Federal Highways Design (Roads);
and later, the Director, Bridge
Construction,overseeing the
Construction of all Federal
Highways Bridges in the Country.
Engr. Anako was the Technical
Assistant to the then Hon. Minister
of Works & Housing Chief Anthony
Anenih between 1999-2002 and
also Member/ Secretary of EMT, a
Presidential team saddled with the
responsibility for monitoring and
reporting on all Federal Highway
projects during the period 1999 –
2002. He authored and delivered
s e v e r a l Institute of Civil Engineers
conferences/workshops/seminar/p
apers as well as newspaper
publications. He has received a
Ministerial Award of
Commendation of Service. He was
appointed Federal Permanent
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
Secretary in December, 2019, and
has served in that capacity at the
Police Service Commission,
Federal Ministry of Information and
Culture, Federal Ministry of Youth
and Sports Development and now
Federal Ministry of Power.
He is a Registered Engineer with
the Council for the Regulation of
Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).
In 2001, he was conferred and
inaugurated as a Fellow of the
Nigerian Society of Engineers
(FNSE). Engr. Anako has also
earned Awards of Excellence from
the Nigerian Society of Engineers,
and the Nigerian Institution of Civil
Engineers. He is also a Fellow of
the Nigerian Institution of Highway
and Transportation Engineers
(FNIHTE), and the Nigerian
(FNICE).
 e company
e w or ks by TC N engineers as th
Highlights of so m e grid
s to re ha bi lit at e and expand th
continue

i. De-commissioning of faulty Earthing v. Replacement of Faulty SACE Gas Breaker on

Transformer and the installation and T1-30MVA 132/33KV Transformer
commissioning of a new secondary at Omuaran T/S with new 33kV
replacement Earthing reactor at Crompton Greaves VCB
Dakata Transmission Station
vi. Installation of 2No. new 33kV Gang Isolator
ii. Replacement of faulty Differential switch on FUT & Birgi Feeders at Minna T/S
Relay o n 6 0 M VA 1 3 2 / 3 3 k V
Transformer TR1 at Dan Agundi T/S vii. Replacement of defective 132kV CT on 60MVA
with PCS9671 Differential 132/33kV Transformer TR5 primary at Suleja T/S
Relay
viii. Installation and commissioning of six (6Nos.)
iii. Installation and configuration of the 330kV CTs, two sets of stack insulators
new Siemens Siprotec 7UT61 on Yellow & Blue Phases of 330kV Unit 6 Bay (T6H)
Differential Relay on 7.5MVA at Jebba Power Station Transmission Switchyard.
132/33kV Transformer T1 at
Otukpo T/S TCN equally undertook a routine scheduled line
trace and equipment maintenance in all
iv. Replacement of Single Operated its regions within the quarter, as well as replaced
Primary Breaker on T1 40MVA circuit breakers, battery banks and defective
1 3 2 / 3 3 k V Tr a n s f o r m e r insulators among others.
Mobitra at Mcpherson 132kV
T/S with new G a n g o p e r a t e d 1 3 2 k V
Breaker

page 24 TRANSMISSION COMPANY OF NIGERIA

NSE
TCN URGES NSE TO SUSTAIN HIGH STANDARDS
IN THE ENGINEERING PROFESSION
T
he Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has
been urged to sustain high standards in the
engineering profession to maintain its
transformative role in society.
The Ag. Managing Director and Chief Executive
Officer of TCN, Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz, gave the
charge while hosting leaders of the Nigerian Society
of Engineers (NSE), Maitama Branch, led by its
Chairman, Engr. Dipo Mabogaje, during a courtesy
visit to the TCN Management on Tuesday, 10th
August 2021, in Abuja.
While receiving the team in his office, the Executive
Director, Transmission Service Provider (TSP), Engr.
Victor Adewumi, who represented Engr. Sule
Abdulaziz decried the situation where the
engineering profession does not appear to be
competing adequately with other professions in
terms of growth and expansion. He opined that this
trend could be linked to older members of the
profession not encouraging their children and wards
to pursue engineering courses in tertiary institutions,
and also lack of mentorship of younger engineers.
He advised that there was need for all engineers to
uphold the high standards the engineering
profession is known for, so it can continue to occupy
its place among leading professionals. Commending
the Maitama Branch of NSE for embarking on
several community-based projects, Engr. Adewumi
Group photograph
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Eric Ephraim Ene
pledged TCN's continued support for initiatives that
will challenge members of NSE to excel in the practice
of engineering.
In his remarks, the General Manager, (Engineering
Services), Engr. Geoffrey Nwokoye reiterated the
need for engineers and NSE members to imbibe
infrastructure maintenance culture. On his part, the
General Manager (Transmission Service), Engr.
Jimmy Adetola, harped on the need for NSE and
COREN to live up to expectations by coming up with
initiatives that would advance and protect the
engineering profession.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of NSE, Maitama
Branch, Engr. Dipo Mabogaje said that the courtesy
call on TCN was part of preparations towards the
forthcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) and to
appreciate TCN for its support in the past three years.
He enumerated some of their achievements since
2015 to include the construction of a borehole in the
Gwagwalada community, distribution of textbooks
worth 2million naira, and many medical outreaches.
In his own contribution at the occasion, the Vice
Chairman of the NSE Maitama Branch, Engr. Henry
Okoye, stressed the need for more capacity-building
programs for engineers, to sustain the ethics of the
profession.
CONDITIONS OF SERVICE September 2021/ ISSUE 31

TCN MANAGEMENT REVIEWS EMPLOYEES

CONDITIONS OF SERVICE By Grace Sambe Jauro

Conditions of Service was produced and

approved by both TCN chapters of the National
Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) and the
Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied
Companies (SSAEAC).

Mr. Nnaji also spoke about other corporate roles

expected of TCN staff towards exhibiting the
highest level of professionalism as contained in
the Conditions of Service, adding that the Internal
Industrial Relations staff of the Company will
ensure they familiarise themselves with the
documents to enable them perform optimally.

The General Manager, Human Resources and

ED, HR &CS, Barr Ishaya Dodo, GM (IR), Mr. Chuks Nnaji,
Corporate Services, Mrs. Abiodun Afolabi who
spoke extensively on career development as

T
he Management of Transmission Company of
Nigeria (TCN), has reviewed employee's
conditions of service and career progression
path documents in its resolve to boost commitment
and service delivery in the Company.
The Executive Director, Human Resources and
Corporate Services, Mr. Justin Ishaya Dodo, made
this known at the opening session of the sensitization
programme for staff of TCN on the reviewed 2020
Conditions of Service and Career Progression Path
documents, on Monday, 13th September 2021, at
the TCN Corporate Headquarters in Abuja.
guided by the Career Progression Path, said the
Conditions of Service document was last reviewed in
2020 by the present Management of TCN, after a long
time, adding that the sensitization programme is
basically to outline in specific terms the obligations of
every staff within TCN, and to ensure every staff
understands them.
The sensitization programme was carried out in all the
Regions of TCN nationwide.

According to him, the importance of the Conditions of

Service document which spells out disciplinary
measures and obligations of Management and
staff of the Company cannot be over-
emphasized as it educates, enhances, and
equips staff on any given situation. On career
progression, he stated that it helps the
Company to properly position the organization
in carrying out promotions and recruiting new
staff and spells out the maximum level staff can
attain based on their educational qualification.

Mr. Dodo further charged staff to obtain copies

of both documents and acquaint themselves
with both the Conditions of Service and the
Career Progression Path documents.

Earlier in his welcome address the General

Manager, Industrial Relations (IR), Mr. Chuks
Nnaji, disclosed that the reviewed 2020 Group photograph of TCN staff, Abuja
NIS
TCN ADVOCATES MORE FUNDS FOR
TRANSMISSION INFRASTRUCTURE IN NIGERIA
Middle, GM, (Programme Coordination),Engr Joseph Ciroma
W
ith heightening
concerns by experts
on infrastructure
deficit in the country and the
need to develop, sustain and
maintain existing ones, the
Management of Transmission
Company of Nigeria (TCN) has
made a strong case for
adequate funding from
government budgetary
allocation to complete all
ongoing transmission projects
in the country so as to enhance
bulk power delivery and cope
with the growing demand.
The Ag. Managing Director and
Chief Executive Officer of TCN,
Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz made
this position known while
speaking as a discussant on
“Government Role in the
Development of Infrastructure
in Nigeria” at the National
Engineering Infrastructure
Summit with the theme:
“ To w a r d s a S u s t a i n a b l e
Development, Maintenance
and Management in Nigeria” on
Thursday, 15th July 2021, in
Abuja.
Engr. Abdulaziz, who was
represented by the General
Manager, Programme
Coordination, TCN, Engr.
Joseph Ciroma noted that due to
inadequate funding from the
Federal Government budgetary
allocation, timelines for
completion of several capital
projects have not been met.
According to him, “One of the
challenges we're having is the
annual Federal Government
budgetary allocation which never
matches the amount proposed
for the fiscal year. For example,
for N70 or N100 billion budgeted
for 20 projects in the previous
years, we end up having a paltry
N3.5 billion or N10 billion which
cannot complete the projects” he
said.
He explained that one of the
reasons TCN obtains loan from
international donor agencies for
the execution of projects is
because the loan is made
available for the five years
allowing for completion of
projects which takes about 5-6
years to complete.
Engr. Ciroma reiterated the
primary responsibility of TCN in
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Eric Ephraim Ene
Nigeria's electricity value chain being
to evacuate generated power from
the over 29 power stations to
distribution load centers for onward
distribution to electricity consumers in
the country.
He posited further that TCN does not
only transmit electricity generated, it
also understands the importance of
efficient service delivery and the need
for robust transmission infrastructure
in the country.
In his own speech at the occasion, the
Chairman of Momas Electricity
Meters Manufacturing Company Ltd,
Mr. Kola Balogun, identified lack of
national goals from the leadership
downwards to include
mismanagement of our diversity, and
misalignment of policies as the bane
of infrastructure development in
Nigeria.
According to him, “Most of the issues
truncating the development and
sustainability of electricity
infrastructure has to do with the
management of our diversity because
there is no definition of national goal
that we all have to key into”.
He equally advocated for inter-
agency collaboration to address
issues as they come, especially
concerning the uniform production of
Nigerian meters. “If we can sit down
design one single face that anywhere
you see it, you'll know that this is a
Nigerian meter,” he said.
The summit featured paper
presentations from experts,
government functionaries, and other
professional bodies in the
development, sustenance, and
maintenance of the country's
infrastructure.
NEMSA September 2021/ ISSUE 31

MINISTER TALKS TOUGH ON FAKE

METER INSTALLATIONS IN NIGERIA
By Mary Philips-Udom

The power sector being the engine room of economic

growth and development in the country, he stated, the
Federal Government is determined to rid the power
sector of all unprofessional players and provide safe,
reliable, and sustainable electricity supply to its
citizens.

Dr. Goddy Jedy-Agba advised that the meter test

station should be judiciously used for testing and
certifying meters to eliminate the high rate of
uncertified and substandard meters in circulation. The
test station, he said, will also create jobs for residents
within the eastern axis of the country.

The Managing Director of the Transmission Company

Former Perm Sec. Ministry of Power, Mr. William Nwankwo Alo
of Nigeria (TCN), Engr. Dr. Ahmed Sule Abdulaziz,
represented by the General Manager (Engineering),

T
he Honourable Minister of State for Power, Dr.
Goddy Jedy-Agba, OFR, has warned Engr. G. O. Nwokoye commended NEMSA's initiative
participants in the Nigerian Electricity Supply for setting up the meter test station and advised that it
Industry (NESI) that the Federal Government would embarks on an enlightenment/sensitization exercise
no longer tolerate the installation of fake electricity so that there will be a proper understanding of what
meters by quacks in the country. the test station is to achieve. This, he said, would help
to drive utilization of the test station.
The Minister of State gave the warning during the
official commissioning of the new Nigerian Electricity
Management Service Agency (NEMSA) National
Meter Test Station for the South East Zone in Enugu
on 5th August 2021.

Group photograph
 Quotes
If you can control your thoughts,
emotions and actions, you can
control your whole LIFE.

-Aishik Karmakar
 REGIONAL OFFICE
FOCUS ON
LAGOS REGION
Lagos Regional Office
COVERAGE AREA
The Lagos Region of Transmission Company of
Nigeria covers mainly Lagos State and some
parts of Ogun State. Research statistics indicate
that Lagos State alone has an estimated
population of over 15 million people and about
30% of the energy generated in the country is
being consumed in Lagos alone.
Lagos Region comprises five Sub-Regions
namely; Ikeja-West, Akangba, Egbin, Aja, and
Papalanto. The Region has two major sectors
namely; Transmission Service Provider (TSP)
and Independent System Operation (ISO). TSP,
with its Regional office located in the Ijora-Olopa
area of Lagos State, is headed by Engr. O.E.A .
Ajiboye while ISO, headed by Engr. Joseph
Johnson has its Regional Control Center at Ikeja-
West. Lagos Region has a total staff strength of
355.
page 8
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Tosin Olashinde
Lagos Region has nine (9 No) 330/132kV and
thirty (30 No) 132/33kV transmission Sub-
Stations. The Sub-Stations have a total wheeling
capacity of 8,369MVA made up of 3,960MVA on
the 330/132kV level and 4,400 on the 132/33kV
level. The Region interfaces with three(3)
Distribution Companies namely, Ikeja Electric
(IE), Eko Distribution (EKEDC), and Ibadan
Distribution (IBEDC).
PROJECTS
The Region has several completed projects
while many others are ongoing. Newly
completed projects include 1X100MVA
transformer installed at Ogba 132kV
Transmission Substation (T/S), Ikeja-West/New
Otta 132kV lines 1&2 from Ikeja West Sub-
Station, newly installed 132kV Circuit Breaker
(CB) on Agbara/Ojo 132kV line1 at Agbara T/S,
330kV faulty Circuit Breakers (CB 52-21 330kV)
 REGIONAL OFFICE September 2021/ ISSUE 31

and (CB 52-17 330kV) at Egbin Switchyard

recently replaced, the New Ikorodu/Sagamu AKOKA Rehabilitation of Control
132kV line at Ikorodu 132kV T/S which was 132/33kV T/S Room Building structure and
recently commissioned, and the installation of sinking surrounding land
1X30MVA 132/33kV transformer at Egbin 132kV area. Supply and installation
of GIS indoor equipment,
T/S. complete one circuit breaker
configuration on both lines
Others are the commissioning of new Oke- Eletu and transformer bays to
33kV line, the newly installed Nari PCS 902 replace the obsolete 132kV
Distance Protection Relay along Ota-Ogba 132kV switchgear.
Line, replacement of shattered Yellow Phase Reinforcement with
Lightning Arrester at the secondary side on T2 1 X 6 0 / 7 5 M VA 1 3 2 / 3 3 k V
30MVA 132/33kV Transformer at Papalanto T/S Power transformer.
with new 33kV Arrester. Among the ongoing
projects is the Rehabilitation/Reconductoring of AMUWO Rehabilitation of Control
Ikeja-West/Alimosho/Ogba 132kV lines 1 and 2, 132/33kV T/S Room Building structure and
sinking surrounding land
Ogba/Otta-Tee Off 132kV lines 1 and 2. area. Installation of
2X60/75MVA 1 3 2 / 3 3 k V
On-going projects being handled by the Region power transformer with the
are numerous. Significant among these projects associated accessories.
are being executed by the Project Monitoring Unit Installation of Gas Insulated
(PMU) of TCN in the Region which include the Substation (GIS) with
following: complete one-half circuit
breaker configuration on both
LOCATION PROJECT lines and transformer bays to
IJORA Upgrading of 1X30MVA power replace the obsolete 132kV
132/33kV T/S t r a n s f o r m e r w i t h switchgear.
1X100/125MVA
132/33kV. Reinforcement OTTA Upgrading of existing
of the substation with additional 132/33kV T/S 1X30MVA and 1X40 MVA
transformers with
1 x 1 0 0 / 1 2 5 M V A , 1 3 2 / 3 3 k V 2X100/125MVA132/33kV
power transformer. capacity transformers, high
voltage switchgear, and
LEKKI T/S Installation of 1X300/375MVA associated equipment.
330/132kV transformer and 2 X
60/75MVA 132/33kV Power ITIRE Rehabilitation of Control
Transformer with associated 132/33kV T/S Room Building structure.
high v o l t a g e s w i t c h g e a r, a n d installation of Gas Insulated
equipment. Substation (GIS) with
complete One- h a l f
ALAUSA Upgrading the existing 30MVA circuit breaker configuration (four
132/33kV T/S w i t h 1 X 1 0 0 / 1 2 5 M VA , diameters) on both Lines and
132/33kV power transformer Transformer bays to replace
and associated high voltage the obsolete 132kV
switchgear, and equipment. Switchgears.
Upgrade and reconductoring of Reinforcement with
the 132kV bus with 2X800 1 X 6 0 / 7 5 M VA 1 3 2 / 3 3 k V
Sq.mm conductor, Supply, and Power Transformer.
installation of 33kV
Transformer secondary bay for new ALAGBON T/S Installation of 1X300
1 0 0 / 1 2 5 M V A MVA 330/132kV power
Transformer and additional 3 transformer with associated
number 33kV outgoing feeder Switchgears and equipment.
bays. Supply and installation of

page 9
REGIONAL OFFICE September 2021/ ISSUE 31

2X100/125MVA132/33kV
Power Transformers with
associated Switchgears and
equipment. Substation
Automation System
(SAS) shall be integrated into the
existing TCN SCADA system
and the signal shall be
monitored at NCC
Osogbo.

MARYLAND T/S Upgrading 2X30 MVA with

2X100/125 MVA 132/33kV Engr. O.E.A . Ajiboye
Power Transformer (T1&T3). RTM Lagos Region
Supply and installation of
high voltage switchgear and and commissioned Nari PCS 902 Distance
associated equipment. Protection Relay along Ogba-Ota 132kV Line,
replaced shattered Yellow Phase Lightning
EGBIN T/S Replacement of obsolete Arrester at the Secondary side of T2 3OMVA,
330kV and 132kV control and 132/33kV Transformer at Papalanto T/S, and
relay panels with a replaced faulty 33kV Circuit Breaker on
digital control system.
waterworks Feeder at Old Abeokuta.
Installation of 330kV
and 132kV high voltage
switchgear and associated Others include the replacement of differential relay
equipment. on 60MVA 132/33kV T2 at New Abeokuta TS.
Installation of Micom Differential Relay on 60MVA
RIGHT OF WAY CHALLENGE 132/33kV T4 at Otta T/S, commissioning of New
The Lagos Region is not spared the pervasive Oke-Eletu 33kV Line. Replacement of 132kV
challenge of Right of Way encroachment that Circuit Breaker on Alimosho Line 1 at Ikeja-West
affects TCN operations nationwide. There are T/S and replacement of faulty Battery Bank at
numerous cases of encroachment on Olorunshogo Phase 2 among others.
transmission line routes throughout the Region,
despite several measures to discourage the
perpetrators. TCN, through the Regional office,
has engaged community leaders and their
subjects severally, on the dangers of erecting
structures under high tension power lines.

IN-HOUSE CAPACITY
TCN engineers in Lagos Region have
successfully executed several substation
projects and transformer installations/ repairs in
the Region. Some of these include a brand new
1X30MVA, 132/33kV Transmission Sub-Station
at Ilase, which is the first of its kind on an island
in Nigeria. Installation of 2X100 MVA 132/33kV
Power Transformer at Ejigbo T/S, installation of
1X60MVA 132/33kV Power Transformer at
Apapa T/S, Installation of 1X30 MVA 132/33kV
Power Transformer at Egbin 132/33kV T/S,
among others.
Engr. Joseph Johnson
In 2021 alone, TCN Engineers have installed ROM Lagos Region
INTERVIEW September 2021/ ISSUE 31

THE POWER TRANSMISSION GRID IS

BECOMING MORE STABLE

Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz

Ag. MD/CEO TCN
INTERVIEW
The Ag. Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of TCN, Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz
in an interview with Financial Nigeria, speaks on some recently completed transmission projects,
stabilisation of the grid and the rationale for the supply of electricity from Nigeria to some
Question: Perhaps for their
acronyms, the DisCos (distribution
companies) and the GenCos
(generation companies) are more
familiar to the electricity consumers
in Nigeria. In practical terms, what is
the role of TCN in the Nigerian power
market?
Answer: TCN plays a critical and
central role in the Nigerian power
market value chain, otherwise
referred to as the Nigerian Electricity
Supply Industry (NESI). It is licensed
by the sector regulator, Nigerian
Electricity Regulatory Commission
(NERC), to perform three essential
roles. The first is that the TCN is the
Transmission Service Provider of the
NESI; as such, TCN is responsible
for constructing, maintaining and
operating high voltage transmission
infrastructures like 330kV and 132kV
substations and their components;
and 330kV and 132kV lines and their
components. These infrastructures
carry bulk supply from GenCos to
delivery interfaces at the DisCos.
Secondly, TCN provides System
Operation services, which include
the scheduling and dispatch of
GenCos to provide electricity to
DisCos at over 800 delivery
interfaces, management of
transmission line flows, performing
demand forecasts, and procurement
of ancillary services.
Thirdly, TCN houses the Market
Operations functions of the NESI.
These functions include
administration of all wholesale
markets in the industry, the
implementation and enforcement of
the Market Rules that guide the
industry.
neighboouring countries.
Here are the excerpts:
It is important to note that TCN
does not distribute electricity
directly to consumers except for
factories and processing plants
that consume a huge amount of
power and that connect directly
to TCN high voltage transmission
facilities. We, however, move
electricity from generation
companies on a high voltage and
step it down from 330kV, to
132kV and then to 33kV, for the
DisCos to offtake and further
step down the voltage level,
before feeding the customers.
Question: Some commentaries
say that transmission is the
weakest link in the Nigerian
power value chain. Is there any
validity to this, or how would you
like to disprove the view?
Answer: This is a misconception
and is completely devoid of merit
within the context of the current
dispensation. There is, however,
a historical perspective that must
be brought to bear on this
conversation to bring clarity to
this ill-conceived notion. In the
pre-privatization era and under
the vertically integrated
monopoly of power supply in the
country, transmission facilities
were aged, decayed, outdated,
and grossly inadequate to
evacuate generated power.
H o w e v e r, f o l l o w i n g t h e
privatization and the creation of
TCN as a licensed operator in the
NESI, specific programs and
projects have been undertaken
by the Company with the support
of the Federal Government and
donor partners to not only
expand TCN's national coverage
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
but also to deliberately upgrade
and expand the network to meet
growing transmission demands.
There has been a marked
improvement in grid stability,
efficiency, and deliverability
leading to a significant reduction
in the incidence of system
collapse in recent times. TCN
has been able not only to plan
strategically but also to deliver
several power transformers and
substations as well as
reconductored and upgraded
transmission lines in many
corridors across the country. For
instance, we recently completed
the reconductoring of the Kebbi
– Sokoto 132kV transmission
line; the reconductoring of the
Ikeja West – Alimosho – Ogba –
Alausa 132 kV line in Lagos is
ongoing. Others are Kaduna –
Kano – Katsina 330kV double
circuit lines and substations, and
the Kaduna – Jos – Gombe
330kV double circuit line, among
others.
Ongoing substations have also
been completed and new ones
“
We successfully and
effortlessly transmitted the
highest peak ever
in the history of the
Nigerian
power sector
“
INTERVIEW
built, such as the Gagarawa
Substation, new transformer in some
substation such as in Kumbotso in
Kano, Ajah in Lagos, Kubwa in Abuja.
We equally carried out scheduled
maintenance and procured spare
parts, which have reduced downtime
to bare minimum. These
improvements, which cannot be
exhausted, have led to TCN
recording eight new peak
generations which were successfully
transmitted through the enhanced
grid.
Against this background, it is
unjustifiable to assert that TCN is the
weakest link in the Nigerian power
value chain. On the contrary, I make
bold to say that TCN is presently the
strongest link in the value chain.
Question: Revenue and investment
are two major challenges in the
Nigerian power market. How is TCN
– a public company – affected by
these two challenges, and what is it
doing to address them?
Answer: Yes, cost reflective revenue
and adequate investments have
eluded the sector for a long time. And
it is one of the major reasons for
privatizing parts of the sector.
However, like I said earlier, the
creation of TCN as licensed operator
has given TCN the vantage position
to seek creative ways to invest and
meet the desires of Nigeria. One of
such way is the use of access to
concessionary loans from
development agencies like the World
Bank and Agence Française de
Développement (AFD). These loans
have been deployed for massive grid
expansion projects and rehabilitation
projects. These projects are in
addition to the projects funded by the
Federal Government of Nigeria's
budget and TCN's internally
generated revenue (IGR). TCN was
able to access these developmental
loans by strengthening itself and
making the institution viable and
t r u s t w o r t h y. W i t h t h e n e w l y
established trust comes a lot of
opportunity to access funds at
concessionary rate. These
loans, together with the IGR and
budget allocations, are what is
responsible for the massive
expansion of the grid and
continuous rehabilitation of
existing TCN infrastructures.
While not being boastful, you can
agree with me that a company
doing this amount of investment
in the sector can be said to be the
strongest link in the sector. I am
not saying we have solved all the
problems of revenue and
investments; but we are
constantly being creative and
seeking active collaboration.
All what I have mentioned, would
not have been possible without
the support of the Ministry of
Power, which has played the role
of an enabler and catalyst for
development in the Power
Sector. TCN is equally grateful
for the role of the Ministry of
Finance in accessing these
loans and to its regulator, the
NERC.
Question: Despite the weak
performance of the power
market as a whole, what are the
achievements you would like to
credit to the TCN since the
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
unbundling of the government
monopoly in the power market,
especially in recent times?
Answer: First, I would like to
quickly point out that the
unbundling of the Power Holding
Company of Nigeria (PHCN) and
eventual privatization of the
power sector in 2013, which led
to the birth and licensing of TCN,
helped to clarify the role of the
Company in the power supply
equation in the country. With a
very committed Management
team coupled with the support of
the Federal Government and its
development partners, TCN has
recorded significant milestones
in the system in recent times.
The achievements are
attributable to various strategic
projects and programs
embarked upon by the Company
to ensure grid expansion,
stability, and reliability in the
efficient transmission of bulk
power in the country. Through
the strategic plan code-named
Nigeria Electricity Grid
Maintenance, Expansion and
Rehabilitation Program
(NEGMERP), TCN has
executed several capital
projects and reinforcement
projects across the transmission
INTERVIEW
regions in the country.
We gave priority attention to
equipment upgrade and upscaling of
the requisite technology, this has
helped us to achieve sustained
frequency and grid stability. We
successfully and effortlessly
transmitted the highest peak ever in
the history of the Nigerian power
sector. Some of the projects we
executed that helped to increase our
grid capacity are the completion and
commissioning of Gagarawa
2x60MVA, 132/33KV Substation in
Jigawa State and 1X100MVA
Transformer at Ogba Transmission
Substation, Lagos; Installation and
commissioning of 132/33kV 60MVA
Transformer at Rumuosi
Transmission Substation, in Port
Harcourt, Rivers State; installation
and commissioning of 1x150MVA
Transformer at Kano and many
others.
We procured and installed critical
spares for quick turn-around
maintenance. This has greatly
reduced downtime and increased
efficiency. More needs to be done as
we plan for further decentralization of
our stores to make the spares much
more reachable.
Some key projects in the grid which
150MVA 330/132/33kV power transformer at Kumbotso
Transmission Substation installedby TCN engineers
had been abandoned were
resuscitated; some have been
completed and connected to the
grid, while others will soon be
completed. We also have
several donor-funded projects,
“
...electricity supplied across
our borders is not part of
that required for local
consumption; the quantum
of electricity mapped out
under Multi Year Tariff Order
(MYTO) is always available
on the grid for offtake by
the DisCos
“
some have been completed and
energized, while the others are
ongoing. When most of these
projects are completed, they
would further enable TCN to
unlock more energy flow to the
DisCos.
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
Frankly, I cannot list all the
projects and interventions that
have gone into TCN within the
last few years; they are
numerous. TCN has invested
more in power infrastructure
than any of the privatized arms in
the power sector.
Question: With their demand for
electricity unmet, Nigerians feel
scandalized with the information
that the country supplies
electricity to some neighbouring
countries. Are TCN's
international operations
profitable and/or otherwise
beneficial to Nigeria?
Answer: Without dwelling much
on the nitty-gritty of the answer to
this question, let me quickly say
that the cross-border sale of
electricity to neighbouring
countries, namely Benin
Republic, Togo, and Niger
Republic is driven by both
d i p l o m a ti c a n d e c o n o m i c
considerations which in the long
run are beneficial to Nigeria.
Under an international treaty,
Nigeria is obligated to supply
power to Niger Republic through
which the River Niger passes.
The idea of the international
supply is because the water that
is used for hydro–generation
that forms part of our fuel mix
comes from this international
source. A bilateral agreement
was, therefore, entered into that
Niger Republic will not dam their
part of the River Niger provided
we are ready to supply the power
at a good and affordable tariff.
So that is what is happening.
Secondly, electricity supplied
across our borders is not part of
that required for local
consumption; the quantum of
electricity mapped out under
Multi Year Tariff Order (MYTO) is
always available on the grid for
offtake by the DisCos. This
arrangement is equally
INTERVIEW September 2021/ ISSUE 31

beneficial to Nigeria because the

country has a comparative
advantage in terms of cheaper
production. Selling electricity also
enables Nigeria to generate
employment and foreign exchange
from power export.

Question: What are the major ways

that TCN plans to continue the
modernisation of the transmission
and grid infrastructure, as well as
expand the coverage of electricity in
the country?

Answer: Optimization and

reinforcement of the existing
infrastructure to address the
identified weaknesses in the system
is our key strategy towards delivering
more power to distribution load
centres nationwide. While expansion
is being pursued to cater to new and
future demands, we would continue
to upgrade our network components
and build new substations and lines.
These are to improve our capacity to
move electricity more efficiently in
anticipation of more load up-take by
the DisCos. As I said previously, we
have recently completed some new
transformers installation and
reconductoring of lines in different
parts of the country. Many more of
these projects are ongoing. already playing massive roles in staff quarterly for effective
terms of funding for projects electricity delivery.
We are also deploying modern which are already ongoing.
technologies towards reducing Several of the projects have As TCN continues to efficiently
losses to a lower single digit. been completed and energized. expand its capacity, grid
efficiency and stability will
Question: What is your outlook for The transmission grid is continue to improve, further
the Nigerian power market and the becoming more stable as more enhancing the deliverability of
role that TCN will play in delivering a projects are completed and bulk electricity to distribution
positive outlook? connected to the grid. This is companies nationwide and
because we have intentionally positively impacting the national
Answer: The nation's power market undertaken several economy.
is progressing, but more work still maintenance projects including
needs to be done by all participants spare part replacement,
in the power sector value chain, additional transformers
which are the generation, installation, and are gradually
transmission and distribution revamping the entire system and
sectors. There is an infrastructural of course we are doing these and
deficit, especially in the distribution much more with close attention
networks. TCN is already working on to staff capacity building, which
a massive overhaul of its network, we have equally made a priority.
rehabilitation as well as building new We are training and re-training
substations. Donor agencies are
 INTERVIEW
The Transmission Service
Provider (TSP) is in charge
of the physical assets of the
Transmission Company of
Nigeria (TCN).
In this interview with the
Executive Director, TSP,
Engr. Victor Adewumi,
TCN News sought to know what
TSP has been doing in the
previous year,
how TCN is coping with the
pandemic as well as maintenance
and safety issues.
Excerpts:
Q
: TCN wheeling capacity
and coverage area.
A: We take transmission services to
all the nooks and crannies of this
country, so our coverage area covers
the entire country and presently we
are supplying Niger and Togo. In
terms of our wheeling capacity, TCN
can conveniently wheel 8,100
megawatts, but the verified
transmission capacity by NERC is
7,000 megawatts.
Q: Projects executed in the last
year.
A: Now we have a lot of ongoing
projects being executed unlike
before. We are presently executing
simultaneously, over a hundred
projects nationwide which would be
commissioned as soon as they are
completed.
In the previous year we
c o m m i s s i o n e d 1 x 1 5 0 M VA
330/132/33kV power transformer at
page 11
ED TSP, Engr. Victor Adewumi
Jos Transmission substation,
2x60MVA 132/33kV substation
a t G a g a r a w a , 1 x 6 0 M VA
132/33kV power transformer at
Yandev, 1x40MVA 132/33kV
power transformer at Okene,
u p g r a d e d 1 x 3 0 M VA w i t h
1x60MVA 132/33kV power
transformer at Kumbotso
transmission substation,
energized the second 1x40MVA
132/33kV power transformer at
Yauri Transmission substation,
2x75MVAR 330kV reactors to
improve voltage profile at Apir
and Jos Transmission
substations respectively. We
also completed the
reconductoring of Birnin Kebbi –
Sokoto and Otta - Ogba 132kV
transmission lines with Gap
conductors to increase their
current carrying capacity from
70MW to 120MW. The complete
reconstruction of the Ikorodu –
Shagamu 132kV transmission
line was also completed.
I can tell you that very soon we
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
are going to commission
2x60MVA 132/33kV substation
at Ogbomosho, it has been
tested but we have a small
challenge with the transmission
line from Ganmo to Ogbomosho,
which is not yet completed. So,
we have all our projects ongoing
now and as we are completing
them, we'll be commissioning
them to service.
Q: maintenance.
A: Before, our main focus used
to be preventive and breakdown
maintenance, and when we
were carrying out preventive
maintenance, most of the time
we were more or less
reactionary. We reacted to
problems when they occurred.
We have moved from preventive
to preemptive, now we should be
able to predict that this
equipment is likely to fail and
carry out maintenance on it
before they occur at all. We don't
just react to faults as they occur,
we prevent them, we even
TRANSMISSION COMPANY OF NIGERIA
 INTERVIEW
foresee them by detecting the
incipient fault and then take
necessary action before they
occur. That is what we are trying to
do now.
Q: Line tracing, repairs, and
vandalism.
A: I can tell you it has not been easy
especially with the insecurity in the
country. You know most of our lines
are in the bush, they are not where
you can easily see and access
them. Insecurity has made carrying
out maintenance on these lines
much more difficult; now when you
mobilize people to patrol the lines,
they will insist that you have to give
them security. Not just a matter of
providing police, they will insist on
armed security men, and getting
armed security men to patrol our
lines is not very easy.
Presently we are still working hard
to bring back supply to Maiduguri
town after some of our towers
along the Damaturu-Maiduguri
330kV line were brought down by
Boko Haram insurgents. We are
also reconstructing vandalized
132kV towers on Benin – Delta
line. We also have serious
challenges in that axis but we are
tackling them and putting
measures on the ground to reduce
and stop them completely. This
year, we have awarded the normal
line trace maintenance in all the
Regions in addition to the
mechanized trace of some critical
lines which are either completed or
about to be completed.
Q: Safety of the workers.
A: For us at TCN, we have zero
tolerance for issues of safety. We
are talking of three hundred and
thirty [330] Kilovolts, one hundred
and thirty-two thousand [132]
Kilovolts, those are the voltages we
relate with. Nobody touches 330kV
and 132kV and comes out alive. So
we don't joke with safety at all! If
you come in contact with 330kV,
you might likely even vaporize
page 12
because of the level of the
voltage involved.
Before we embark on any
maintenance at all, we make sure
that we sit all the workers down
and rehearse safety procedures,
we assign roles and
responsibilities to everybody so
that everybody knows what to do.
We have safety supervisors and
officers in all our work centers
whose responsibility is to make
sure all safety precautions and
procedures are duly followed. So
we don't take the safety of our
staff lightly.
Our LifeLine Department carries
out its job on a live line. This is
because you cannot knock off
supply to major equipment else
you throw a whole state or entire
region into blackout, so nobody
will tolerate that –because you
want to carry out maintenance of
over ten hours you ask a
particular region of the country to
be in blackout. To ensure the
safety of the engineers, we
normally first raise the potential of
those individuals that will do the
job live from zero [0] to 330kV or
from zero to 132kV, which means
the person himself will be 330kV,
but he is safe because when you
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
don't have potential different
between him and the voltage on
the high- tension line, there won't
be any current flowing. As long as
no current flows, he's alive, he is
safe, nothing is wrong with him. It's
only when you have potential
difference between him and the
line, then you can have current
f l o w, t h e p e r s o n w i l l b e
electrocuted.
So anytime you want to carry out
maintenance on major lines, they
do the job on that particular
voltage level. That's why we call
them Live Line, and in doing that,
there are procedures we
mandatorily follow and that is why I
said, there is no tolerance at all for
any mistake. Any error would kill
the person concerned. So for us,
as a matter of policy, we don't take
the safety of our staff for granted,
we adhere strictly to the safety
codes as dictated by the type of
maintenance they want to carry
out.
Q: COVID-19 and project
delivery.
A: Well, as I told you, we have a lot
of projects that are ongoing now;
some are nearing completion, as
they are being completed, we're
TRANSMISSION COMPANY OF NIGERIA
 INTERVIEW
“
going to commission them to service.
Unfortunately, I must say that COVID-
19 more or less took us back more
than two years, because at a point the
contractors demobilized from site,
some of them went back to their
country, and some declared force
majeure for us to remobilize them
back to site.
It has not been easy even up till now
there are some equipment that we
need to travel to where the equipment
is being manufactured to carry out
factory acceptance test, COVID -19
affected that too, and that, in the long
run, causes delay in project
completion. Manufacturers don't
manufacture power equipment and
store them; you can't buy them off the
TRANSPOSITION ON UGWUAJI-MAKURDI
TRANSMISSION LINE
Middle, RTM Engu Region, Engr. E. Nwani, and his
team during an official visit to the site
A
rising from the need to strengthen the grid
network for optimum performance,
engineers in the Enugu Region of TCN have
completed transposition work on towers 45, 195,
and 353 along Ugwuaji –Makurdi transmission
lines. The lines transposition became necessary to
correct voltage imbalance at the Apir Transmission
Substation, Benue State.
The transposition work on the transmission lines
that commenced from the Makurdi axis on the 25th
of June, 2021, was completed at the Enugu axis on
July 25, 2021. During the period, the New Haven-
Otukpo 132kV line was transmitting bulk power to
Benue State. This was followed by the OPGW
splicing that was also completed on 27th July,
page 13
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
s manufactured to ensure that it
For us at TCN, we have zero h conforms to your standard.
tolerance to issues of safety.
e
We are talking of three hundred
lf COVID-19 has been a very
and thirty [330] volts, one hundred
. difficult period, what we are
and thirty-two thousand [132] volts,
Y doing currently, is to carry out
those are the voltages we relate with.
o an online test, but being there
Nobody touches 330kV and 132kV and
u physically is better, so covid 19
comes out alive. So we don't joke
fi is a serious challenge but
with safety at all! If you come in
r
contact with 330kV, you might likely
since it is a global issue, we
s
even vaporize because of the level are trying to live with it as we
of the voltage involved t make effort to complete our
ve them your design and
specifications for them to
manufacture according to what
“
g
i
projects.
you gave them and when they
are done you will have to go there
to inspect and test what has been
By Mary Philips-Udom
2021.
Transposition is the periodic swapping of the position of
a transmission line at an interval of 150KM to reduce
crosstalk/radio interference and improve transmission
fluctuating voltages. It also helps equalize the
impedance relative to the ground, thus avoiding one-
sided loads in three-phase electric power systems.
TRANSMISSION COMPANY OF NIGERIA
 SUBSTATIONS
PAPALANTO
P
apalanto 132/33kV
Transmission Substation
was commissioned in 1976
as a 45MVA substation with 3No
1 5 M VA 1 3 2 / 3 3 k V p o w e r
transformers at 132/33kV voltage
level. The sub-station has 2No
132kV lines; one from Ogba Sub-
station (incoming), and the other
feeds Abeokuta 132kV Station
(outgoing). The sub-station is
located at Ewekoro in Ewekoro
Local Government Area of Ogun
State and takes supply from the
Ogba/Papalanto 132kV single
circuit (SC) diverted in 2002 to
Ota/Papalanto 132kV single line.
With the creation of Ota 132/33kV
Substation at Ota in 2002, the
Ota/Papalanto line has remained
the source of supply to Papalanto
132/33kV Transmission
Substation to date.
Over the years, the Papalanto
page 14
KNOW YOUR
SUBSTATIONS
132/33kV
TRANSMISSION SUBSTATION
Substation has undergone
several transformative changes.
In 2001, a 15MVA 132/33kV
power transformer was
decommissioned and replaced
with 30MVA 132/33kV power
transformer. Also, in 2013, the
substation was upgraded with a
30MVA 132/33kV transformer
installed by in-house TCN
engineers.
In 2018, the second 15MVA
132/33kV power transformer was
also de-commissioned, and the
substation was upgraded with a
6 0 M VA 1 3 2 / 3 3 k V p o w e r
transformer, moving the capacity
of the substation from 45MVA
(36MW) to 120MVA (96MW)
The 3No power transformers in
the substation, including
2x30MVA and 1x 60MVA are all
operating at 132/33kV voltage
level.
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
In 2021, the Ota/Papalanto 132kV
double circuit (DC) lines were
commissioned, while the old
Ota/Papalanto 132kV single
circuit (SC) line was
decommissioned. These have
improved the load-carrying
capacity of the circuit. Meanwhile,
the new Ota/Papalanto double-
circuit lines remain the source of
supply to Papalanto, old and new
Abeokuta 132/33kV transmission
substations.
The Papalanto 132/33kV
Substation supplies bulk electricity
to Ewekoro, Ifo, Ijako, Papalanto,
Ilaro and Lapekeleke environs.
Presently, installation works on the
new Papalanto/Abeokuta 132kV
double circuit installation work is
ongoing and on completion, will
have a positive impact on the
substations' supply reliability and
flexibility.
TRANSMISSION COMPANY OF NIGERIA
ARTICLE
Distributed Energy System in Nigeria:
Potentials, Technologies, Benefits and Challenges
A. Hydroelectric Power
Nigeria has rivers and dams with
great potential that can be utilized
for hydroelectric power
generation. The two major rivers in
the country are the river Niger and
river Benue, both in the North
Central part of the country. There
are however other rivers and dams
that can be used for power
generation both in large and small
scale. There are about seven river
basins established by the Nigerian
government. These river basins
have great potential for small to
medium scale hydroelectric power
generation and they include;
Sokoto-Rima, Hadejia-Jama're,
Chad, Niger, Upper Benue, Lower
B e n u e , a n d C r o s s - R i v e r.
Presently, Nigeria has three
existing hydroelectric power
plants namely Kainji, Jebba and
Shiroro with installed capacities of
760 MW, 607 MW and 600 MW
r e s p e c t i v e l y. T h e e x i s t i n g
hydroelectric power plants with a
total generation of 1967 MW
constitute about 15.7% of the total
installed capacity of the Nigerian
power system. There are also
power plants currently under
construction like 700MW Zungeru
hydroelectric power plant and
several smaller hydro power
plants. These smaller hydro power
plants include: 40 MW Kashimbilla
hydro power plant in Taraba State,
39 MW Dadin Kowa hydro power
plant in Gombe and 30MW Gurara
hydro power plant in Kaduna. The
3050 MW Mambilla hydroelectric
project in Taraba State has been
proposed for construction.
Therefore, hydroelectric power
By Bemboo Saka & Vedat Kiray
plants can be developed as
distributed energy system and
connected via the distribution
system to supply power to
potential customers. These small
scale power plants usually have
water head between 1.5 m – 400 m
and generate power in the range of
5 – 100 kW for micro hydroelectric
power plants and between 500 kW
- 10 MW for mini hydro-power
plants. This DES technology is
also of great advantage to the
generation-absent northern part of
the grid. Moreover, the low water
head associated with distributed
energy system means there will be
water available all year round for
power generation.
B. Gas Turbines
All the existing gas-fired power
plants in Nigeria are located in the
southern region where there is
abundant gas deposit. Nigeria's
gas reserve is the seventh largest
in the world with an estimated 187
trillion cubic feet of natural gas with
an estimated daily production of
3.5 billion cubic feet per day.
Unfortunately, despite this huge
gas potential, only a little has been
tapped with most of the gas flared
due to geographical factors. The
installed gross capacity of the
existing gas-fired power plants is
made up of 8685 MW while
conventional steam power plants
is made up of 1848 MW. This
means the total capacity of
installed gas power plants is
10,533 MW corresponding to
about 84.3% of the total installed
generation currently available in
Nigeria. Though, the gas
transmission and distribution
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
Cont’d from last edition
system infrastructure has been
developed for gas supply in the
south of the country, it is highly
affected by vandalism. Another
reason responsible for the poor
performance of these power
plants is due to gas shortage, poor
quality of gas supplied to some
power stations, low gas supply
pressure and limited size of the
gas pipelines.
Despite this installed generation
capacity and the huge gas
potential in Nigeria, the peak
generation ever attained is just
over 5.3 GW. This low generation
can partly be attributed to the fact
that there is a lot of constrained
generation due to gas that cannot
be evacuated to load centers as a
result of inadequate transmission
lines. Thus, installing distributed
energy systems to the distribution
network at these locations can
help evacuate some of these
constrained generation to the grid
thereby providing energy access
to more population.
C. Diesel Generators
Most diesel generators and
combustion engines are used for
off-grid generation to provide
power supply. The use of diesel
generators is common due to lack
of reliable electrical power supply
especially in rural areas, high cost
of building conventional power
plants, high cost of expanding the
transmission grid and right of way
issues. In most of thecases, the
loads in the rural areas are
powered by small diesel
generators running continuously.
ARTICLE
With an estimated 35 billion
barrels of crude oil, Nigeria has a
lot of potential to develop diesel
powered applications to support
the development of distributed
generation and improve energy
access to off-grid customers. In
Nigeria, most of the diesel
generators and combustion
engines are used for off-grid
generation purposes in
residential, commercial and
industrial applications. Also,
hybrid solar PV– diesel generators
have been combined and used in
remote locations in Nigeria to
provide energy access where
there are no transmission and
distribution lines. This hybrid
system with diesel also reduces
the cost that would have been
used to procure batteries for the
solar power. Furthermore, diesel-
fuel can easily be transported to
the site where it is installed thereby
making the technology attractive
for distributed energy applications.
Therefore, diesel generators of
over 500 kW have a great potential
to contribute to DES organization
in Nigeria.
D. Energy Storage System
Energy storage system is a
significant component in the
development of distributed energy
system because it enhances
r e l i a b i l i t y, e f f i c i e n c y a n d
sustainability. When integrated
with distributed energy system, it
offers benefits such as increased
penetration of renewable energy,
improved energy efficiency,
reduced fluctuations, decrease in
network losses and ability to
deliver reserve energy to the grid.
The different types of energy
storage systems include battery
energy storage system (BESS),
flywheels, superconducting
magnetic energy storage (SMES),
compressed air energy storage
(CAES) and pumped storage for
hydro power plants. Presently,
there is no known on-grid
application of energy storage
system. This is can be attributed to
the fact that there is no distributed
energy system tied to the national
grid. Therefore, going forward,
Nigeria needs an energy storage
system in order to have a healthy
distributed energy system
structure.
BENEFITS OF DISTRIBUTED
ENERGY SYSTEM
Connecting distributed energy
system can offer a lot of benefits
such as reduced network losses,
transmission infrastructure
deferral, increased use of
renewable energy sources, lower
emissions amongst many others.
These benefits can be categorized
into the technical, environmental
and economical.
A. Technical Benefits
The technical benefits associated
with integrating distributed energy
system to the grid depends on the
optimal placement and sizing of
the units. This strategic placement
and sizing of distributed energy
units in the distribution network
results in improved voltage profile,
reliability, system loss reduction,
relieved overloading on feeders,
i m p r o v e d s y s t e m s t a b i l i t y,
reliability, enhancement of power
quality, provision of ancillary
services, reduction of peak power
requirement and flexibility.
B. Environmental Benefits
The environmental benefits
offered by integrating distributed
energy system to the distribution
network provides a more efficient
way of generating and distributing
electricity with minimal
greenhouse gas emissions. This is
encouraged by the increased use
of renewable energy resources.
The environmental benefits
associated with the connection of
distributed energy system to the
distribution grid include; reduction
in greenhouse gas emissions,
reduced health risk, reduction in
use of land space and
conservation of environmental
resources.
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
C. Economical Benefits
Economic benefits that can be
derived from the integration of
distributed energy system to the
distribution system include;
reduction in capital investment for
transmission and distribution
assets, diversification and efficient
use of cheaper fuel sources and
provision of ancillary services to
minimize cost associated with
power outages.
C H A L L E N G E S O F
DISTRIBUTED ENERGY
SYSTEM
There are some challenges that
affect the use of distributed energy
systems in the electrical
distribution system. These
challenges arise when distributed
energy systems are not
strategically connected to the
electrical distribution system. The
challenges can be as a result of
technical, economical and
regulatory/policy.
A. Technical Challenges
The technical challenges
associated with integration of
distributed energy system in the
distribution network is largely due
to two-way power flow. The
traditional distribution networks
are generally designed for one-
way flow of power from the
conventional grid to the loads
connected to the distribution
network. However, with the
integration of distributed energy
system, the distribution network
has been transformed into a multi-
source system allowing two-way
power flow from the conventional
grid to the load and vice-versa.
Therefore, the technical
challenges associated with
connecting distributed energy
system include: power quality
issues, protection issues, voltage
profile and regulation issues and
power losses.
B. Economical Challenges
Presently, there are little or no
ARTICLE September 2021/ ISSUE 31

incentives for distribution application, discriminatory use of environmental and economic

companies to connect distributed
energy systems to their network
and offer active management
services. Therefore, new
commercial measures need to be
established to encourage the
development of distributed energy
system in distribution networks in
order to extract corresponding
benefits associated with the
technology.
C. Regulatory/Policy
Challenges
The regulatory policies in different
areas influence the rate of
developing and deploying
distributed energy system. First,
the present electric power industry
structure favours the development
of the centralized generation
power plants making it challenging
to encourage connection of
distributed energy system to the
power grid. Other regulatory
challenges that affect the
integration and development of
distributed energy system include:
high charges for ancillary services
procurement, limited access to
regional electric power system
development plan for private
sectors, bureaucratic
complications for licensing
system charge imposed on small
generators and lack of tax
exemption. Therefore, developing
appropriate policies are important
as it will support the integration of
distributed generation system into
the distribution networks.
CONCLUSION
Despite the huge renewable and
non-renewable energy resources
available in Nigeria, the country's
power sector has faced a lot of
challenges. One of the major
challenges has been the
development of the grid to meet
the power requirements of the
residential, commercial and
industrial customers. Other
difficulties faced by the power
system include: huge network
losses, right of way issues to build
new transmission lines as well as
shortage of gas for the
conventional power plants to
function maximally.
Therefore, connecting distributed
energy systems to the distribution
network has been identified as a
way of overcoming these
challenges. Integrating distributed
energy system close to the load
will lead to technical,
benefits. These include improved
voltage profile, reduced losses,
provision of ancillary services for
network stability, enhanced power
quality, transmission expansion
deferral, reduction in emissions
and many others. These
distributed energy systems can
also pose technical,
environmental and regulatory
challenges. The technical
challenges can arise if the
distributed energy system is not
optimally located and sized, thus
leading to problems such as
power quality issues, protection
issues, voltage issues and losses.
Thus, it is important to properly
site and size distributed energy
system in order to maximize the
benefits of using this technology.

FAREWELL

There are no goodbyes for us.

Wherever you are, you will always
be in our hearts.
Death is the last chapter in time, but the
first in eternity.
May your souls Rest in Peace.
Adieu!
Late Mr. Sylvester Obhojiehese Late Mrs Ali Seyi Oluchi
Officer II (MVD) Lagos Region Staff IV, Lagos Region
 FEATURES
OCCUPATIONAL
HAZARDS
IN NESI
T
he electricity industry is a
high-risk accident-prone
industry, especially for field
engineers whose work exposes
them to electricity and its dangers.
To reduce to a minimum accidents
that may endanger lives or cause
disability, and also hamper
effective operations in the industry.
Health and Safety hazards that are
prevalent in the electricity sector
have been codified in the Health
and Safety Code. Some examples
of health and safety hazards and
measures prescribed for strict
observance include:
ŸFaults men should avoid contact
with naked or live cables.
ŸUse of safety belt when climbing
pylons and poles.
ŸUse of safety boots
ŸUse of eye goggles for welders,
especially in arch welding.
ŸUse of face mask for those who
work exhaust outlets
ŸPrecaution when walking on wet
floors.
Ÿ Use of crash helmet when
climbing.
ŸUse of hand gloves for those who
work on sharp edges cables.
ŸUse of coverall, especially when
working in areas where chemicals
are used.
ŸUse of specified tools for a
page 18
specific job.
ŸConcentrate on the task at hand,
do one thing at a time.
ŸAvoid unnecessary risks or
unorthodox new methods; don't
try new things until they have
been certified.
ŸDon't litter workplaces or spill oil
on the floor.
ŸDon't be at the wrong place at the
wrong time.
ŸUse of earmuff in noisy areas like
in the turbine floors.
Ÿ
Since accidents are a part of
human existence and do occur in
the industry, it is therefore
essential that a well defined
general remedy in first aid
procedure is put in place and
taught to key staff to ensure that
victims of workplace accidents
receive proper first aid help to
minimize injuries and save lives.
Basic First Aid Procedure
includes the following;
1. Airway- Make sure you
keep the patients' airway clear by
extending the neck and ensuring
nothing is occluding the nostrils.
2. Breathing- Is the victim
breathing, if not, do mouth-to-
mouth breathing (assisted
breathing) using an AMBU bag.
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
3. Circulation- if the victim's
heart is beating, do a cardiac
massage by gently pressing below
the left nipple about seventy-two
times per minute.
4. Drug- If you cannot jump-
start the heart by the above
procedure, medical professionals
give some drugs like Adrenaline
into the heart. This procedure is
only for professionals.
5. Electric Therapy-
Specialized Electrical Machine
(Defibrillator) can be used to
stimulate the heart into action
again.
6. Fluid- If the victim is in a
state of shock with circulatory
failure, we can introduce
intravenous injection.
7. Gas- If you are not winning,
give oxygen.
8. Hospital- If all these
procedures fail, quickly take the
victim to the nearest hospital.
TRANSMISSION COMPANY OF NIGERIA
FEATURES September 2021/ ISSUE 31

SNAPSHOT OF TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

REQUIRED TECHNICAL STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE
PROPOSED PLANNED REVAMPING /REHABILITATION OF EXISTING
NETWORKS NATIONWIDE BY THE DISCOS
NIGERIAN ELECTRICITY MARKET STABILIZATION FACILITY
By Engr. Peter O. Ewesor Managing Director/CEO of NEMSA & Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation

R
eferring to the above subject matter issued to
DisCos, it is important to state that this
proposed program aims at repositioning and
enhancing the stability of the Electricity Distribution
networks to deliver safe, reliable and sustainable
electricity supply and also to ensure safety of lives and
property, is a good initiative and highly welcomed.

In order to ensure the full realization and reaping of the

full benefits of the objectives and purposes of the
program, it is necessary at this stage to quickly draw
DisCos’ attention to the following Technical Standards
and Specifications requirements:

1. Electric Concrete Poles and Spannages Ÿ Ungalvanized Substandard Bracket

ŸAll Electric Concrete Poles must be procured from
only NEMSA Certified Electric Concrete Pole
Manufacturers to ensure compliance and for
traceability.
ŸSpecial Electric Concrete Poles of appropriate
minimum height of 12.2m should be used in areas
where additional heights above 10.36m poles are
required for adequate clearances.
ŸAppropriate Poles Supports for Bracket Insulators
must be used for constructions.
One end of the bracket bolted to the pole while the other end was left open without bolt.
This shows the holes are not provided as the concrete pole is not designed for this type
of installation practice. Detachment of any upper phase conductor will fall on the lower
phase conductors. The above 33kV double circuit primary feeder lines were seen
d a n g e r o u s l y p a s s i n g o v e r a n e x i s t i n g 11 k V s u b s t a t i o n .
ŸUsing a Single Pole structure for more than one T-
offs: the use of single poles structure for T-offs is
prohibited, because it creates a weak point along
the source existing feeder thereby leading to
possible collapse of the power lines.

2. Unacceptable Unsafe Construction Practices

ŸPoles with channel irons; the use of extended channel
irons to increase concrete poles heights is unsafe and
prohibited. Below are pictorial illustrations of the
unsafe/prohibited construction practices

Unsafe use of inadequate length of channel iron to extend pole height; Inadequate
strength and stability of network results into network failure and danger to lives
and property.
 FEATURES September 2021/ ISSUE 31

x x
Poorly constructed T-off lead to instability of the networks and low availability of Dangerous double circuit construction of different voltage levels (33kV, 11kV)
power supply to consumers poles
as well asshould
wrong T-off not exceed 100kVA and must be

This type of four pole structure with galvanised channel iron can be used to
correct this type of wrong connections on the left hand picture
For Specific Spacings: requirements - mounted using galvanized channel irons.
Ÿdouble circuits should be carried on cross-arms ŸThe pole mounted transformers must be firmly
mounted on double poles structures to give the bolted on the supporting structures at
required safe spacing between the overhead circuit multiple/equally distributed points to maintain
lines. However, if it is along a constrained corridor, the balance/equilibrium at all times.
single poles to be used must have been designed for Find below pictorial illustrations
requirements of firm grip and such purpose. Examples
of these would be 12.2m and special poles

x
The above design cannot stand the test of time. The high-tension pole has
been extended with un-galvanized channel (substandard materials) already
rusted, bent and waiting to collapse as indicated in the above photograph.
This network is defective in design and construction and is not acceptable.
Special poles of 40ft (12.2 meters high) or 33kV steel tower, galvanized pole
of appropriate height should be used for this type of construction to guarantee
the stability and durability of the network as well as safety of lives and property.
The factor of safety of this type of construction and pole arrangement is zero.
x
Fig 2: This pole mounted transformer was installed on un-galvanised rusted angle
iron which could collapse any time. The split low voltage cables pass between the
conservator tank and the transformer body with a spacer between them.
This is an unsafe condition as the cable insulation may peel off and the spacer may
also be removed which would energize the transformer body. The transformer
should be mounted on galvanised support well re-enforced and armoured cable
should be used.

Ÿ
Restrictions on Pole mounted Transformers: ŸAll Conductors must be properly checked
ŸThe capacities of transformers to be mounted on

page 14
FEATURES September 2021/ ISSUE 31

networks.

x
2. Equipment and Materials Matching
Proper Equipment and Materials matching should be
ensured for each substation. For example;
ŸDon't install 400Amps feeder pillar (F/P) for a 500kVA
substation with 696Amps output rather 800Amps F/P
should be used.
ŸDon't use 150mm2 armored cable for 300kVA
transformer, rather use 185m2.
Ÿ
3. Lightning Arrester
Fig 1: Pole mounted transformer installed on ungalvanized (rusted) channel iron Lightning Arresters must be of appropriate Voltage
and in close proximity to a building.This is unsafe for the occupants of the house.
Rating (kA) and should be correctly positioned to serve
the intended purpose and area of coverage.

4. Protection Drop out fuses

All Substations must have appropriate Drop out Fuse
fittings that are functional with appropriate/proper fuse
carriers.

5. Conductor Type and Sizes

All Conductors must be of correct sizes as follows:
ŸPrimary feeder lines must be constructed with
minimum of 150mm2ACSR Conductors
Ÿ11KV feeder lines must be constructed with 100/150
Overhead Conductors with severe kinks
mm2 ACSR/AAC Conductors.
out/gauged as there are a lot of undersize
Conductors in the market. For example, 120mm2 Use of appropriate bi-metal line taps for connections.
being sold as 150mm2, also 90/95mm2 being sold It is of paramount importance that all
as 100mm2 connections/joints between dissimilar Conductors
.Avoid splitting of conductors and do not use (All+ & Copper) must be through Bi-metallic Line Taps
conductors with kinks as these are likely to fail to avoid sparkings, Corrosion etc due to reactions
prematurely. between the two dissimilar Conductors.
Transformers Standards and Specifications Use of only NEMSA Certified Electrical Installation
Transformers must have correct specified Vector Contractors for
group in line with NESIS Regulations 2015 ŸProject Execution
Provisions/requirements as follows; In line with Extant Electricity Supply Regulations, you
are to ensure the use of only NEMSA Certified
a. Distribution Transformers (TRF) must be Electrical Installation Contractors for projects
Dyn11 Vector group. execution.
b. Power Transformers for Injection
Substation must be Dyn1 Vector group. ŸSubstation Fencing
c. The TRFs low voltage must be 400volts. In line with extant electricity supply regulations, you
d. Exercise restraint/caution to avoid being are to ensure that all substations are appropriately
deceived into buying Transformers with Aluminum fenced and secured with locks and keys to prevent
Alloy windings as we had similar cases in the past unauthorized access. Also appropriate danger sign in
which then defeated the aim/objective and Red on White background with skull symbol should be
purpose/essence for which the program was displayed on the entrance and side of the fence. Find
designed. below pictorial illustrations of an acceptable fenced
substations.
1. Steel Cross Arms and Angle Irons
All Steel Cross Arms and Angle Irons must be fully
Galvanized type and of correct dimensions (length
of 2.7m and 1.8m for 33kV and 11kV Overhead
It is Important to Note the following:
lines respectively). Non-galvanized types are
1. That the Inspection, Testing and Certification
unsafe and normally result in sudden collapse of
FEATURES September 2021/ ISSUE 31

by NEMSA is mandatory for any New and 4. Further to the reviews above, if these projects
are executed in line with the required technical
Standards and Specifications, the following expected
benefits would be realized:
1. Reduced technical losses;
ii) Improved Revenues;
iii) Improved safety in the networks;
1. Reduced maintenance cost as the project
may not require maintenance as soon as it is
commissioned for use;
v) Prolonged Network Service life;
vi) Reduced incidents of electrical accidents
/electrocution within the networks; and above all
A newly constructed standard substation with danger sign, standard fencing
1. Meeting the requirements of extant
and graveling
Rehabilitated Network before they are put back into Regulations, codes and standards.
use.
2. Otherwise, the networks may go into state of
disrepair soon after commissioning for use with
attendant high maintenance cost, with consequences
to safety of lives and property.

5. The DisCos are expected to use this

opportunity of the Nigerian Electricity Market
Stabilization fund scheme to among others revamp
their networks/primary feeder lines conductors with the
appropriate minimum size of 150mm2 (ACSR)
conductors etc.

A well designed and constructed substation in GRA, Sokoto.

6. Finally, it is hoped and advised that the
execution of the rehabilitation/stabilization projects
2. Also Note that these Exercises in 3(i) will should be preceded by proper study and design in
attract statutory fees. order to avoid haphazard construction that violates
safety requirements and extant Regulations/codes.
3. Note also that from our field experiences Also, the anomalies described/provided above should
with BEMES of Similar Projects, the actual costs of be completely avoided in order to realize all the benefits
Standard Electrical Materials and Equipment are of the program.
not always properly reflected which has invariably
encouraged Contractors to buy substandard
Electrical Materials/Equipment and refurbished
transformers. For example; 33kV and 11kV
galvanized cross arm and angle irons are priced in
some BEMES as N15,000.00 instead of about
N25,000.00 for the correct type.
FEATURES September 2021/ ISSUE 31

Sub-regions /Work
Regions 330/132kV Substations 132/33kV Substations
Centers
Kumbotso 132/33kV S/S
Dakata 132/33kV S/S
Kano Sub-region Kumbotso 330/132kV T/S Dan-Agundi 132/33kV S/S
Kwana-Dangora 132/33kV S/S
Wudil 132/33kV S/S
Tambarawa 132/33kV S/S
KANO Katsina 132/33kV S/S
Katsina Sub-region Daura 132/33kV S/S
Kankia 132/33kV S/S
Dutse 132/33kV S/S
Hadejia 132/33kV S/S
Dutse Sub-region
Gagarawa 132/33kV S/S
Azare 132/33kV S/S
Osogbo 132/33kV S/S
Ofa 132/33kV S/S
Osogbo Sub-region Osogbo 330/132/33kV T/S
Ilesha 132/33kV S/S
Ife 132/33kV S/S
Ayede 132/33kV S/S
Jericho 132/33kV S/S
Ibadan North 132/33kV S/S
Ayede Sub-region Ayede 330/132/33kV T/S Iwo 132/33kV S/S
OSOGBO Iseyin 132/33kV S/S
Ijebu-ode 132/33kV S/S
Sagamu 132/33kV S/S
Mcpherson 132/33kV S/S
Ado-Ekiti 132/33kV S/S
Akure Work Center
Akure 132/33kV S/S
Ganmo 132/33kV S/S
Ganmo Sub-region Ganmo 330/132/33kV T/S Ilorin 132/33kV S/S
Omuaran 132/33kV S/S
Port Harcourt Main 132/33kV S/S
Port Harcourt Town 132/33kV S/S
Port Harcourt Sub- Elelenwon 132/33kV S/S
region Rumuosi 132/33kV S/S
Yenagoa 132/33kV S/S
Ahoada 132/33kV S/S
Afam IV 330kV T/S Afam I-III 132/33kV S/S
Afam Sub-region Afam V 330kV T/S Afam IPP 132/33kV S/S
Afam VI 330kV T/S
PORT Alaoji 132/33 kV S/S
HARCOURT Aba Sub-region Alaoji GS 330/132kV T/S
Aba 132/33kV S/S
Alaoji GS 330/132kV T/S Umuahia 132/33kV S/S
Owerri Work Center Owerri 132/33kV S/S
Adiabor 330/132kV T/S Calabar 132/33kV S/S
Calabar Sub-region Adiabo 132/33kV S/S
Odukpani 330/132kV T/S
Odukpani PS 132/33kV S/S
Itu 132/33kV S/S
Uyo 132kV S/S
Uyo Work Center Ikot Ekpene 330/132kV T/S Eket 132/33kV S/S
Ibom PS 132/33kV S/S
Ekim 132/33T/S
Benin 132/33KV S/S
Irrua 132/33KV S/S
Benin South Sub-region Benin 330/132KV T/S
Oghara 132/33KV S/S
Auchi 132/33KV S/S
Ihovbor 132/33kV S/S
Ihovbor Work Centre Ihovbor 330/132kV TS
Okada 132/33kV S/S
Benin Amukpe 132/33kV S/S
Sapele Work Centre Sapele 330/132KV T/S
Effurun 132/33kV S/S
Delta 132/33KV S/S
Delta 330/132KV T/S
Delta Sub-region Afisere 132/33kV S/S
Aladja Steel 330/132KV T/S
Ozoro 132/33kV S/S
Omotosho phase Omotosho 132/33kV S/S
Omotosho Sub-region
330/132/33KV T/S Ondo 132/33kV S/S
New Haven 132/33kV S/S
Enugu 330/132kV T/S Nkalagu 132/33kV S/S
Enugu Sub-region Abakaliki 132/33kV S/S
Ugwuaji 330/132kV T/S New Nsukka 132/33kV S/S
Ugwuaji 132/33kV S/S
Onitsha 132/33kV S/S
GCM 132/33kV S/S
Onitsha Sub-region Onitsha 330/132kV T/S Nibo Awka` 132/33kV S/S
ENUGU
Agu Awka132/33kV S/S
Oji River 132/66/33kV S/S
Asaba 132/33kV S/S
Asaba Work centre Asaba 330/132kV T/S
Agbor 132/33kV S/S
Apir 132/33kV S/S
Yandev 132/33kV S/S
Apir Sub-region Makurdi 330/132kV T/S
Aliade 132/33kV S/S
Otukpo 132/33kV S/S
FEATURES September 2021/ ISSUE 31

TCN REGIONS AND WORK CENTERS

Mando Road 132/33kV S/S
Kaduna Sub-region Mando Road 330/132kV T/S Kaduna Town 132/33kV S/S
Zaria 132/33kV S/S
Gusau 132/33kV S/S
KADUNA Gusau Works Centre Talata-Mafara 132/33kV S/S
Funtua 132/33kV S/S
Birnin Kebbi Sub-region Birnin Kebbi 132kV S/S
Birnin Kebbi 330kV T/S
(Proposed) Sokoto 132kV S/S
Shiroro 132kV S/S
Shiroro Sub-region Shiroro 330kV T/S Shiroro II 132kV S/S
Minna 132kV S/S
Jebba 330kV PS Jebba 132kV S/S
Jebba Sub-Region
SHIRORO Jebba 330kV T/S Bida 132kV S/S
Kainji Fakun 330kV T/S
Kainji Works Center Dogon gari (Kainji) 132kV S/S
Kainji 330kV PS
Tegina 132kV S/S
Kontagora Works
Kotangora 132kV S/S
Center
Yauri 132kV S/S
Gombe132/33kV substation
Ashaka 132/33 kV substation
Gombe Sub-Region Gombe 330/132kV substation
Potiskum 132/33kV substation
Biu 132/33kV substation
Jos 132/33kV substation
Makeri 132/33kV substation
Jos Sub-Region Jos 330/132kV substation Pankshin 132/33kV substation
Kafanchan 132/33kV substation
BAUCHI
Bauchi 132/33kV substation
Yola 132/33kV
Savannah 132/33kV substation
Yola Works Centre Yola 330/132kV substation
Mayo Belwa 132/33 kV substation
Jalingo 132/33kV substation
Maiduguri Works Maiduguri 132/33kV substation
Nil
Centre Damboa 132/33kV substation
Akangba 132/33kV substation
Ijora 132/33kV substation
Akangba 330/132kV Ilupeju 132/33kV substation
Akangba Sub-Region
substation Isolo 132/33kV substation
Itire 132/33kV substation
Ojo 132/33kV substation
Ikeja West 132/33kV substation
Ayobo 132/33kV substation
Alimosho 132/33kV substation
Ikeja-West 330/132kV Ogba 132/33kV substation
substation
Ikeja-West Sub-Region Alausa 132/33kV substation
Ejigbo 132/33kV substation
Agbara 132/33kV substation
Oke-Aro 330/132kV
Oke-Aro 132/33kV substation
substation
LAGOS
Olorunsogo 330/132kV Papalanto 132/33kV substation
Papalanto Sub-Region substation 1 Otta 132/33kV substation
Olorunsogo 330/132kV
Abeokuta 132/33kV substation
substation 2
Egbin 132kV substation
Egbin Sub-Region Egbin 330/132kV substation Ikorodu 132/33kV substation
Maryland 132/33kV substation
Aja 330/132kV substation Aja 132/33kV substation
Lekki 330/132kV substation Lekki 132/33kV substation
Alagbon 132/33kV substation
Aja Sub-Region Akoka 132/33kV substation
Alagbon 330/132kV Oworosoki 132/33kV substation
substation Amuwo-Odofin 132/33kV
substation
Apapa Rd 132/33kV substation
katampe 132/33kV S/S
Kukwaba 132/33kV S/S
Central Area 132/33kV S/S
Kubwa 132/33kV S/S
Abuja Sub-region Katampe 330/132kV T/S Suleja 132/33kV S/S
Keffi 132/33kV S/S
Apo 132/33kV S/S
Karu 132/33kV S/S
Akwanga 132/33kV S/S
ABUJA Gwagwalada Sub-
Gwagwalada 330/132kV T/S Gwagwalada 132/33kV T/S
region
Ajaokuta 132/33kV S/S
Ajaokuta 330kV T/S Okene 132/33kV S/S
Okpela 132/33kV S/S
Ajaokuta Sub-region
Lokoja 330kV T/S Lokoja 132/33kV
Geregu 1 330kV T/S
Geregu 11 330kV T/S
 FEATURES September 2021/ ISSUE 31

??
DID YOU KNOW
Keeping Your Mouse In The Same Spot Makes
You Prone To Repetitive Strain Injury
If your mouse stays in the same spot all day,
you can be prone to repetitive strain injury
{RSI} upper-limb RSI occurs when your
tendons are straining more than they should for
long periods of time. Which can be because of
movement repetition, a sustained awkward
position, or prolonged pressing against hard
surfaces. Smartphone overuse may eventually
weaken your hands and wrists. People who
use their smartphones heavily to text and email
are prone to muscle fatigue and iphone thumb,
which is a type of RSI. The effects can get so
?
bad that the pain can reach all the way up to
your wrist and can be utterly debilitating to your
hands
.
Dirty Keyboards Are As Dangerous As E. Coil
and Coliforms
Keyboards can be a breeding ground for
bacteria if not kept clean. Micro –biologists
found that keyboards can even have up to live
times as many bacteria as a bathroom, and can
include dangerous one like E. coli and
coliforms both commonly associated with food
poisoning along with staphylococcus, which

BEHIND EVERY
SUCCESSFUL MAN
A group of tourists visited a Crocodile Farm and were on a floating structure in the
middle of a pool with many huge crocodiles. The owner of the Crocodile Farm threw a
challenge to his guests: "Whoever dares to jump in, swim to the edge and survive, will
be rewarded with $100 US Dollars.

The silence was deafening... “No one dared to move.” Suddenly, a man jumped into the
pool. He was chased by the crocodiles.. but with luck, he eventually made it out of the
pool, to the admiration of the other guests.

The owner of the Crocodile Farm announced.. “We have a brave winner”

After collecting his reward and all was over, the couple went back to their hotel room.
The “brave man” said to his wife, “I did not jump in... SOMEONE PUSHED ME” !

His wife smiled and coolly said, " it's me”

So there you have it!

It's true of the phrase that says... "Behind every successful man, is a woman".

This woman.. PUSHED !!

page 19 TRANSMISSION COMPANY OF NIGERIA

FEATURES
Voulez-vous apprendre A
le français?
Do You Want to learn French?
FRENCH
Please sit down
Pass me the file
Read that document
Do you want to eat?
The restaurant is this way
Where is the rest room?
This is for ladies
This is for gentlemen
Your phone is ringing
Pick up your phone
Where are you?
I am in my office
We will start the meeting now Nous allons commencer la
The minutes of the meeting
Who will draft the
communiqué?
communiqué?
Please sign the document
document
We must submit it today
ENGLISH
Asseyez – vous sìl vous
plait
Passe moi le fichier
Lire ce document
Tu veux manger?
Le restaurant est par ici
Où sont les toilettes?
Cette toilette est pour les
dames
Ces toilettes sont pour les
messieurs
Ton téléphone sonne
Décrochez votre téléphone
Où es-tu
Je suis au bureau
réunion maintenant
Le compte rendu de la
réunion
Qui rédigerait le
Veuillez signer le
Nous devons le soumettre
aujourd'hui
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
SHORT STORY
COCKROACH
MANAGEMENT THEORY
t a restaurant, a cockroach suddenly flew from
somewhere and sat on a lady. She started
screaming out of fear. With a panic stricken face
and trembling voice, she started jumping, with both
hands desperately trying to get rid of the cockroach.
Her reaction was contagious, as everyone in her group
also got panicky.
The lady finally managed to push the cockroach away,
but it landed on another lady in the group. Now, it was
the turn of the other lady in the group to continue the
drama. The waiter rushed forward to their rescue. In
the relay of throwing, the cockroach next fell upon the
waiter. The waiter stood firm, composed himself and
observed the behavior of the cockroach on his shirt.
When he was confident enough, he grabbed it with his
fingers and threw it out of the restaurant.
Sipping my coffee and watching with amusement, the
antenna of my mind picked up a few thoughts, and
started wondering; was the cockroach responsible for
their histrionic behavior? If so, why then was the waiter
not disturbed? He handled it with near perfection,
without any chaos.
It is not the cockroach, but the inability of those people
to handle the disturbance caused by the cockroach,
that disturbed the ladies.
I realized that, it is not the shouting of my father or my
boss or my wife that disturbs me, but it's my inability to
handle the disturbances caused by their shouting that
disturbs me.
It's not the traffic jams on the road that disturbs me, but
my inability to handle the disturbance caused by the
traffic jam that disturbs me.
More than the problem, it's my reaction to the problem
that creates chaos in my life.
Lessons learnt from the story: I understood, I should
not react in life. I should always respond. The women
reacted, whereas the waiter responded. Reactions are
always instinctive, whereas responses are always well
thought out.
A beautiful way to understand LIFE. A Person who is
HAPPY is happy not because Everything is RIGHT in
his Life...He is HAPPY because his Attitude towards
Everything in his Life is Right! RESPOND TO ISSUES
DON'T REACT, and keep winning...
RETIREMENT September 2021/ ISSUE 31

RETIREMENT

Engr. A. O Sobande, ROM Abuja Region Engr. Ayedegbe Sesan, AGM (Projects) CHQ

Engr. Muhammed Sankara Adamu, PM (Electrical) CHQ Engr. Adesina Olusola Ajao, PM (F&A) CHQ

Mrs Orby Micheal-Kazim, PM (Public Affairs) CHQ Mrs Bebendoga Habiba, PM (Stores) Lagos Region

Mr. Marcus Kurama, PM (F&A) Abuja Region Engr Ukoh Benson, PM (T/S) PortHarcourt Region
FEATURES
BEFORE THE SKY
GETS DARK
T
he last stretches of life's
journey will gradually get
d i m m e r a n d d i m m e r,
naturally, it will be harder to see the
path ahead that you are treading
towards, and it will be harder to
keep going forward. As such, upon
turning 60, it would do us all well to
see life for what it is, to cherish what
we have, to enjoy life whilst we can,
and not to take on society's troubles
or your children's and
grandchildren's affairs on for
yourself. Stay humble, don't act
superior on account of your own
age and talk down to others- this will
hurt yourself as much as it will hurt
others. As we get older, all the better
should we be able to understand
what respect is and what it counts
for. In these later days of your lives,
you have to understand what it
means, to let go of your
attachments, to mentally prepare
yourself. The way of nature is the
way of life, go with its flow, and live
with equanimity.
For all of us, a nice read, very
beautiful, very true!
Hardly the day started and.. it is
already six o'clock in the evening.
Barely arrived on Monday and it's
already Friday.
and the month is almost over.
and the year is almost up.
and already 50 or 60 or 70 years of
our lives have passed.
and we realize that we lost our
parents, friends.
And we realize that it is too late to go
back.
So let's take full advantage of the
time we have left.
Let's not stop looking for activities
that we like.
Let's put color in our grayness.
Let's smile at the little things in life
that put balm in our hearts.
And yet, we must continue to enjoy
serenely the time that remains.
Let's try and eliminate the after.
I do it after
I will say after
I will think about it “after”.
We leave everything for “later” as if
“after” is ours.
Because what we do not
understand is that:
After, the coffee cools.
After, priorities change.
After, the charm is broken.
After, health passes.
After, the children grow up.
After, the parents get older.
After, the promises are forgotten
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
After, the day becomes the night.
After, life ends.
And all that “after”, we find it's often
too late.
So leave nothing for “later”..
Because in always waiting for later,
we can lose the best moments,
The best experiences,
The best friends,
The best family.
The day is today. The moment is
now.
We are no longer at the age where
we can afford to postpone until
tomorrow what needs to be done
right away,
So let's see if you'll have time to
read this message and then share
it.
Or maybe you'll leave it for, “Later”.
And you will not share it “over”.
Even share with those who are not
yet “senior”.
May you be well and happy.
Culled from the net
 RETIREMENT September 2021/ ISSUE 31

2021 MANAGEMENT RETREAT

IN PICTURES

R-L, Ag. MD/CEO, TCN Engr. Dr. Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz, Governor of
Akwa Ibom, Mr Udom Emmanuel, and Secretary to the Akwa Ibom Participants
State Government, Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem,

Participants Participants

Visit to Ibom Power Plant

Ag. MD/CEO TCN, Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz, ED ISO, Cross section of TCN management staff during the visit
Engr. Lawal Maman, and ED TSP, Engr Victor Adewumi
page 18 TRANSMISSION COMPANY OF NIGERIA
 RETIREMENT September 2021/ ISSUE 31

2021 MANAGEMENT RETREAT

IN PICTURES

visit to the “bridge of no return”

Visit to Ibom Power Plant

TCN team led by the Ag. MD/CEO, Engr Dr Sule Abdulaziz

and the MD of Ibom Power Plant, Engr Meye Etukudo

page 18 TRANSMISSION COMPANY OF NIGERIA

 RETIREE’S CORNER
DARE
E
xcellence and Productivity
are generally the ambition
and goal of any serious-
minded person, who engages in
any task, job, work, or endeavor.
Therefore, for anyone to excel in a
chosen career, work or task, certain
inputs are necessary and should
not be compromised. These
include but are not limited to the
following:
Knowledge and the love to
continuously seek for and acquire
knowledge, because retrogression
sets in when you stop acquiring
knowledge. The more you acquire
knowledge in your chosen field and
generally, the more you realize that
you need to know even much more.
Diligence, Dedication to duty,
Truthfulness, Trustworthiness,
Te a m w o r k , P e r s e v e r a n c e ,
Innovation, Courage and readiness
to take on tasks, Faith and Trust in
God, Be at peace with all men. That
is ....Stay cool, Pray for Divine
assistance, always.
EXCEL
to
For all these to work in your favor,
you must begrudge nobody and
envy no one, because the sky is
wide enough to accommodate all
birds to soar, without collision.
Also, hurt nobody, except within
the company's rules and
regulations, to ensure discipline
and compliance. In addition,
emulate those with high
productivity and honesty of
purpose, who can be your role
models. Be a motivator, uphold
world best practices, identify,
appreciate and nurture talents
within your team/workforce.
Eschew pride. It is the fast track to
downfall. Be humble. Never
hastily garbage a team-mate's
suggestion. Take a second look at
it. You might be able to think
through it better than him or her,
package it, and make it useful for
the achievement of your team/
corporate goal. It is a true saying
that, "if you want to go fast, walk
alone. But if you want to go far, go
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Dave Dipo Ifabiyi
together". Teamwork is crucial to
excelling.
When I was growing up, my parents
impressed it on me to be diligent,
honest, humble, respectful fear God
and avoid the "get rich quick"
syndrome. They said, learn and know
the work first. Money will follow suit.
They stressed that "Too much work
doesn't kill a person but idleness
does". Other lessons they taught us
are: "Never dig a pit-hole for anyone
as u can never tell if you would be the
victim". "Remember the son of whom
you are". That is, uphold personal
integrity. "An orphan should avoid
having a wound or sore on his back
because no one will help him steam
and dress it for quick healing".
So, everywhere I was privileged to
work, I walked in as "Mr. Nobody". But
by dint of hard work, honesty, and
Divine Grace, I was discovered and
nurtured to excel. In my profession,
lobbying is a skill. But I said, "No to
lobbying".
RETIREMENT
I was privileged to work with great
men and women, who
appreciated my talents and skills.
I was Personal Assistant to MD's,
Directors, General Managers,
and travelled widely in the course
of my assignment.
Likewise, it was a great honor for
me to be the pioneer Principal
Manager (Public Affairs) for the
Distribution and Marketing
Sectors, PHCN CHQ. Engr
G.O.P. Osakue and Engr Bisi
Oyinloye as Executive Directors
for Distribution and Marketing
respectively gave me a lot of
inspiration. Later with Engr Mrs.
Benice A. Lijofi as ED,
Distribution, Engr Oyinloye as ED
Operations and was succeeded
by Engr John O. Ayodele, my
tasks increased just as our teams'
achievements were always
appreciated.
My deployment to Transmission
Company of Nigeria as the
pioneer Head, Public Affairs,
opened another stream of
challenges in my career. Engr
G.O.P. Osakue, the then CEO
had confidence in my
capabilities. The second day I
assumed duties, the CEO and I
moved to Kaduna, where he
supervised the installation of
several transmission towers
that had collapsed, disrupting
power supply to parts of North
Central and North Eastern part
of Nigeria. The publicity was
massive during the incident
which created the much-
needed awareness that TCN
was on top of the situation.
My Public Affairs team in TCN
became specialists in the
official commissioning of
transmission power projects
and we became consultants to
NIPP. We inaugurated an in-
house news magazine,
executed many community
relations outreaches, and
ensured good media coverage
of TCN operations and events.
We designed and launched a
new logo for TCN after the
unbundling exercise and
designed the company's
website, etc.
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
In daring to excel, one must avoid
distractions, jealousy, and the "drag him
down" attitude from colleagues. You must
develop your eyes to read everything
thoroughly before signing off as OK
because of possible sabotage. We avoided
undue and over-exposure of our CEO/MDs
in TCN to the media, because of inherent
dangers and possible abuse. On the way to
excel, I saw intrigue, back-bitting, and
outright confrontation displayed. God
saved me from three possible plane
mishaps, in one of them, our host Engr
George Chiatula was thrown into panic
having been informed we already took off
from Enugu. But in all these, God was
merciful and I enjoyed a graceful and
glorious exit from the workplace. Glory be
to Almighty God.
In conclusion, Jeanette Winterson said, "
Best lesson of life is, listen to everyone.
Because nobody knows everything but
everyone knows something". Also, the
Scriptures say, "Better is the end of a thing
than the beginning thereof, and the patient
in spirit is better than the proud in spirit"
Eccl 7:8.
RETIREMENT September 2021/ ISSUE 31

TCN Management Tees of at Uyo

O
n the sidelines of the recent Management Retreat by the Management of TCN in Uyo,
Akwa Ibom State, the Ag. MD/CEO, Engr. Dr Sule Abdulaziz, among others took to the
vast beautiful Golf course of Ibom Icon Hotel.

While we congratulate the organisers of the Retreat for choosing such an exciting and grand
venue and for a job well done, we present below pictures captured by Public Affairs camera on the
golf course for Transmission News.
Enjoy!
GRID CODE
GRID CODE REVIEW PANEL TASKED TO
REVIEW AND UPDATE THE GRID CODE
R-L, ED (ISO), Engr. Maman Lawal, GM (Engineering), Engr. Geoffrey Nwokoye
T
he Nigerian Electricity
Supply Industry (NESI)
is a highly regulated
industry with different
operators providing services
aimed at delivering safe and
reliable electricity to various
categories of consumers. To
ensure that the industry
functions efficiently, several
legal and regulatory
instruments create service
level obligations on the
operators under the purview
of the Nigerian Electricity
Regulatory Commission
(NERC).
One of these regulatory
frameworks is the Grid Code,
which is the instrument that
contains the day-to-day
operating procedures and
principles governing the
and GM (MO), Engr Edmund Eje
development, operations, and
maintenance of a well-
coordinated and economic
transmission system.
Considering the criticality of the
Grid Code to the efficient
operation and management of
the grid system, there is
provision for regular review and
amendment of the Code to align
it with changing and emerging
circumstances to improve its
efficacy in guiding all users of
the electric power grid.
The Grid Code Review Panel
(GCRP) is empowered to drive
the review and amendment
processes. Section 3.1.1 of the
Grid Code provides that “A Grid
Code Review Panel shall be
formed according to Rule 42 of
the Market Rules. This Panel
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Stella Ejikonye
shall be in charge of the Grid Code
review and amendment.”
Derived from this provision, the
functions of the GCRP include the
following:
1. Keep the Grid Code and its
working under review
2. Review all amendments to the
Grid Code, which NERC or any User or
TCN may wish to submit for
consideration by the Panel from time to
time.
3. Publish recommendations as to
amendments to the Grid Code that TCN
or the Panel deems necessary or
desirable and the reasons for the
recommendations.
4. Issue guidance in relation to the
Grid Code and its implementation,
performance, and interpretation when
GRID CODE September 2021/ ISSUE 31

asked to do so by the User.

5. Consider what changes

are necessary to the Grid Code
arising out of any unforeseen
circumstances referred to it by
TCN.

6. Consider and identify

changes to the Grid Code to
remove unnecessary sections
or clauses that are irrelevant to
the effective operation of the
Nigeria Power System.

Members of the GCRP are

statutorily drawn from different
stakeholder groups in the NESI,
including NERC, GenCos,
DisCos, TCN, and the oil and
gas sector, as enshrined in the
Grid Code.
Following the deregulation of
the NESI, the thirteen-member
GCRP was first launched by
NERC in 2007, to undertake the
above-listed functions. Since
then, several panels have been
constituted and they have come
up with resolutions and
amendments to the Grid Code
resulting in two successive
versions; the current one being
GC Version 03.
In pursuance of its mandate, the
Members of Grid Code Review Panel
current GCRP convened its 21st
meeting on 8th July 2021in Keffi
Nasarawa State, under the
Chairmanship of Engr. Maman
Lawal, Executive Director,
Independent System Operations,
TCN. Engr. Lawal reminded
members of their role in GCRP,
stressing that the purpose of the
Grid Code is to maintain the
integrity of the grid by ensuring
that users do not compromise the
minimum standard required for
efficient, reliable, and sustainable
operations of the grid. He said
that the Panel would work under
three sub-committees, viz:
Distribution, Transmission, and
Generation, to ensure that issues
bordering on the varied facets of the
sector receive attention and specific
solutions proferred.
Speaking on the sideline, the
Secretary and member of GCRP
Engr. Kabir Adamu maintained that
the Panel was to constantly look at
how the Code was being
implemented and identify challenges
arising therefrom, to find solutions to
those challenges to achieve stability
and reliability of the grid.

Cross section of participants

SSAEAC
TCN MANAGEMENT MEETS WITH THE
EXECUTIVE OF SSAEAC TCN CHQ CHAPTER
T
he Management of Transmission Company of
Nigeria (TCN) has charged the leadership and
members of the TCN-CHQ Chapter of the
Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied
Companies (SSAEAC) to join hands with them to find
solutions to issues affecting staff, to engender
industrial harmony.
The Executive Director, Human Resources and
Cooperate Services, Mr. Justin Ishaya Dodo, gave
the charge during the statutory Joint Advisory
Committee Meeting between TCN Management and
SSAEAC Executives, held on Friday, 16th July 2021,
at TCN Corporate Headquarters, in Abuja.
According to him, this was the first time such meeting
was taking place between the current Management
and TCN-CHQ SSAEAC chapter since the
Management assumed office. He explained that
such meeting allows the Management and the Union
to rub minds together. In his words, “we have moved
away from trenches and are now on the table
A cross section of TCN and SSAEAC (TCN) Chapter team
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Grace Sambe-Jauro
discussing issues that would help us all. We are
going to deliberate on them with all sense of
responsibility to arrive at solutions”.
In his remarks, the Chairman SSAEAC TCN-CHQ
chapter, Comrade Louis Nwachukwu, appreciated
the Management of TCN for the meeting and
commended the Management's desire to pursue
industrial harmony within the company. He said,
“we are in a new dawn, a new dawn of peace,
harmony, and we know that where there is
harmony, it engenders productivity and progress”.
He expressed the willingness of the Union to work
with TCN Management, saying that SSAEAC will
always partner with the Management for progress
not just for TCN, but also for the nation's power
sector.
The meeting deliberated on issues such as
Recruitment, Staff Welfare, among others.
TRAINING
TCN and World Bank Train 708
Electrical Engineers, Linesmen
T
ransmission Company
of Nigeria, TCN, has
commenced an
intensive training program for
its Engineers. The strategic
capacity building program
which is being undertaken in
collaboration with the World
Bank will involve 708
Engineers drawn from the
following departments and
sections- Electrical,
Maintenance, Protection
Control and Metering, in the
company taken from the
electrical, maintenance
department, Protection
Control and Metering, and
Lines Maintenance across the
10 regions of the company.
Declaring the training open in
Abuja on Monday, 12th July
2021, the Ag. Managing
Director and Chief Executive
Officer of TCN, Engr. Dr. Sule
Ahmed Abdulaziz said the
training was to expose TCN
maintenance engineers to
facility improvement
programs under the World
Bank's Nigeria Electricity
Transmission Project (NETAP),
currently being executed in
TCN.
He said, “In all, engineers
undergoing this training are
those in the Protection, Control
and Metering Department
(PC&M), Electrical
Maintenance Department
(EMD), and Lines Maintenance
Department (LMD), totaling 708
engineers from the 10
Transmission Service Provider
(TSP) regions nationwide.”
The TCN head noted that the
Company was prioritizing the
training of its staff as it gradually
expands the capacity of its
transmission network with the
execution of several projects to
ensure grid efficiency and
stability.
“A more robust grid, coupled
with the role we must play under
the new Service Level
Agreement and our part in the
West African Power Pool
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Ndidi Mbah
(WAPP), among others, underscore the
need for our engineers to be trained and
retrained, to ensure that they are relevant
and efficient,” Abdulaziz stressed.
According to him, the training which is
divided into five modules is aimed at
honing their skills and, in the end, give
them fresh perspectives on how to get
their jobs done more efficiently and
effectively to produce better results.
The Executive Director, Transmission
Service Provider (TSP), Engr. Victor
Adewumi urged the participants to ensure
active involvement during the program
and to ask questions whenever they
require clarification during the two-week
training.
He also advised them to take advantage
of the training to seek knowledge, noting
that with adequate theoretical and hands-
on knowledge they are more likely to
progress to become prosperous. He said
further that it is only those with keen
interest and determination that come out
of such training programs better
engineers.
On his part, the Executive Director,
TRAINING
Human Resources and
Corporate Services, TCN, Mr.
Justin Ishaya Dodo, revealed
that much preparation was
put into the program designed
for maximum result, and
lauded the World Bank
initiative. He advised the
trainees to make the best use
of the opportunity and also to
network and make new
friends.
T h e G e n e r a l M a n a g e r,
Programme Coordination at
TCN, Engr. Joseph Ciroma
urged the graduates to
deepen their knowledge as
the training has a team from
the World Bank along with
other indigenous power
experts and instructors to
The Executive Director Transmission Service Provider, Engr. Victor Adewumi and The Executive Director, System Operator,
giving certificates to participants during the closing ceremony to engineers.
provide insight on emerging
trends and what is expected of
the trainees in discharging their
duties.
...Closing Ceremony
The Ag. MD/CEO TCN
expressed the assurance that
the 708 engineers that
participated in the World
Bank/TCN training are going
back to their respective stations'
better engineers, with newly
acquired skills that would
positively impact their jobs.
According to him, they should
now be able to preempt fault
when maintaining transformers
rather than waiting for a fault to
occur, before effecting repairs.
Participants
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
He promised to procure more testing
equipment and other equipment that is
required. He said that for the engineers to
use some of the equipment, they would
require further training that TCN would
provide. The Ag. MD/CEO encouraged
them to continue to read on their own,
noting that “we have a system that is
expanding, even as technology continues
to evolve and so there is need to keep
abreast of developments, to stay relevant
and functional.
.
TRAINING
SERVICE LEVEL AGREEMENT
RISK AND MITIGATION
INTRODUCTION:
In the previous edition of TCN Transmission News,
we brought you an overview of the Service Level
Agreement (SLA) as it affects operators in the NESI
generally. In this edition, we bring you the second
part of the feature on SLA focusing specifically on
Risks and Mitigation as it affects TCN and its
·
operations.
Service Level Agreement (SLA) is an
agreement that defines the level of service
commitment between a service provider (TCN) and
a client (DisCo), laying out the KPI and the
··
penalties/remedies for not achieving the agreed-on
service level.
Risk? The chance of an actual outcome to
differ from the expected outcome.
A Good SLA is the allocation of realistic
achievable improvement targets that will ensure
both parties meet their obligated service
performance target and in turn reduce the risks of
penalties/remedies amongst contracting parties.
TYPES OF RISK
General Risk
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Ali Grema Mohammed
Is SLA LEGAL?
EPSRA 76(5) (2)(e) In establishing tariff methodologies
the Commission may differentiate among consumers
based on differences in total electricity consumption, the
periods in which electricity is consumed, load factors,
power factors, voltage levels, location within the country
and other such criteria as may affect the cost of providing
a service and may allow a lifeline tariff for some
consumers.
Section 10 A(f) of NERC/198/2020 Order of March 2020
“The operational performance of TCN shall be anchored
on firm agreements with DisCos with Key Performance
Indicators and financial remedies for non-performance
by either party.”
This section of the NERC Order gave birth to the TCN
/DisCo SLA which is based on key performance
indicators and financial remedies as stated in Section 10
(g) such as:
ŸAvailability (hours of supply)
ŸReliability (frequency and duration of interruptions)
ŸQuality (voltage and operating frequency)
Ÿ Liquidated Damages (Financial remedy)
Birth of SLA
Section 10 A(e) of NERC/198/2020 Order of March 2020
notes;
“A firm Improvement in supply by DisCos would require
investment in reinforcing feeders, transformers and
protection equipment.”
“TCN shall be directed to align and prioritize its
investments towards resolving transmission/distribution
interface bottlenecks and reducing the high incidence of
tripping at 132/33kV substations.”
Offtake Obligation RISK
TRAINING
· Offtake Obligation Failure; This will generally
be structured as a failure of TCN to deliver the
requested capacity or failure for a Disco to take the
requested capacity;
· The responsible party for the obligation failure
is liable to pay for the quantity of deemed energy and
capacity that was never delivered or taken
respectively.
· Penalty
Where does SLA impact?
SLA and Service Reflective Tariff
Section F & G of NERC order NERC/198/2020 states;
“All DisCos shall be required to disaggregate their
respective service areas and/or customers in
accordance with the quality of service and supported
by a proposal for “service reflective” tariff classes that
shall be graduated by quality of service.”
“All DisCos are directed to, no later than 30 June 2020,
provide smart meters at 11kV and 33kV feeders level
with the capability of sending real-time or near-real-
time data to the Commission.”
TCN Risk Mitigation;
Ÿ·TCN shall immediately inform Disco about tripping of
33kV feeder and relevant information on the tripping.
Ÿ·Any planned shutdown shall be informed the Disco
at least one week in advance.
Ÿ·Any change/rescheduling of a planned shutdown
has to be communicated at least 24 hours in advance
subject to system security or emergency
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
consideration as defined in the Grid Code.
Ÿ·TCN shall authorize entry of DisCo authorized staff
on a 24X7 basis to attend to breakdowns.
·
ŸTCN shall provide the control room desk number
and a list of DisCo authorized staff along with their
official contact numbers will be handed over to TCN.
Ÿ·TCN shall immediately inform DisCo Substation
concerned, about tripping of 33kV feeder along with
time, load, & relay flagged (Type of Fault) along with
fault current intensity.
How Do We Mitigate Performance Risk?
Capacity Testing and recording through;
· Feeders Historical Peak/data
· Feeders Periodic Testing
· Accurate Relay Coordination
DisCo Nominations (Hourly)
· TCN/DisCos Failure to adhere
Accurate C o m m u n i c a t i o n ,
Reporting and Recording.
Force Majeure
If any event has a material adverse impact on a
party's ability to discharge contractual obligations
and the event is not the fault of the party seeking
relief and is beyond the reasonable control of the
party.
· Immediate reporting of Force Majeure
Types of Force Majeure
· Local Political Force Majeure,
· Foreign Political Force Majeure and
· Natural Force Majeure.
Insurance
· Liquidated Damages Value
TRAINING September 2021/ ISSUE 31

SOCIALS
NOVELTY FOOTBALL MATCH:
NCC OSOGBO LOST 2-0
TO EGBIN POWER PLC
By Omideji Oluwakayode

A
s part of TCN's efforts towards maintaining mutual
2nd Left, Ag. MD/CEO TCN, Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz,
understanding among the electric power
during his birthday
stakeholders in the country, the National Control
Center (NCC), Osogbo recently organized a novelty
football match between the NCC Oshogbo football team
and Egbin Power football team at the City Stadium
Oshogbo, Osun State.

According to the General Manager (NCC), Osogbo, Engr.

Balarabe Abdullahi, “the benefits of the novelty football
match include enhancing social relationships,
interpersonal affiliation and co-existence among TCN staff
and staff of Egbin Power Plc”. He said such games were
helpful, especially for some category of staff that sit for very
long hours in their offices.

in his response, the Acting CEO, Egbin Power Plc, Engr.

Mrs Maryan Woru, Officer III (Procurement), CHQ,
and her husband
Olurotimi Famoroti, said that the essence of the match was
to foster better relationships among critical partners within
the electricity sector, and create time for leisure, noting that
as the saying goes, “all work and no play truly makes Jack
a dull boy”. He said the National Control Center and
stakeholders in the power sector have been working hard
to ensure power delivery to Nigerians and that it was
therefore not out of place to take some time off to play and
exercise.

On his part, NCC football team coach, Mr. Abdulrasheed

Adeleke, appreciated the TCN Management for the unique
opportunity to participate in the novelty match and
promised that the NCC team would win the second leg of
the novelty match. He commended the Egbin team, whom
he said had always been a formidable football team since
the era of the defunct PHCN up till now.

TCN's NCC Osogbo team lost by 0-2, to the Egbin team.

For TCN, the football match was the first of its kind since
the privatization of the Generation and Distribution
companies in 2013.
Mr Uchenna, Officer IV (HR), Enugu Region, and his wife
INSPECTION
ENUGU REGION MANAGEMENT INSPECTS THREE
ON-GOING TCN PROJECTS IN EBONYI STATE
Group photograph of RTM Enugu Region and his team during
the inspection tour to the on-going 2x60MVA 132/33kV
Amasiri Substation in Ebonyi State
T
he Management of the Enugu Regional
Office of TCN along with officials of the
Ebonyi State Government inspected three
critical transmission projects in Ebonyi State
recently, to ascertain the progress of work.
The TCN team headed by the Regional
Transmission Manager (RTM), Enugu Region,
Engr. Emmanuel Nwani, with the Permanent
Secretary, Ministry of Power, Ebonyi State, Engr.
Godwin Nwankwo during the inspection tour, visited
the Umuoghara 330/132/33kV Substation, the
Abakaliki – Amasiri 132kV DC Transmission line,
and Amasiri 2x60MVA 133/33kV Substation.
It was discovered during the inspection of the
proposed Umuoghara Substation, that though the
site had been cleared, no meaningful work had
been done. The team was informed that the
villagers who donated the land for the project have
threatened to resume farming on the land and to
prevent this, TCN was advised to erect a perimeter
fence round the site.
At the site of the 2x60MVA 132/33kV Amasiri
Substation, the foundation and plinth work for the
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Mary Philips-Udom
equipment have been constructed with 90 percent
of the equipment and materials on ground for
installation, while approximately 10 percent of the
requisite materials await clearing from the Lagos
port. North China Engineering Ltd, the contractors
for the project, explained that installation works
would commence as soon as the remaining
materials are delivered to site.
in the case of the Abakaliki – Amasiri 132kV DC
transmission line project, the team confirmed that
several transmission towers have been erected
along the transmission line route. However, it was
discovered that the encroachment of the Ebonyi
State Airport Project on the transmission line route
was delaying the speedy conclusion of the TCN
project.
In his remarks after the inspection, the Permanent
Secretary Ebonyi State Ministry of Power, Engr.
Godwin Nwankwo stated that the completion of all
the transmission projects in the State would
enhance the socio-economic activities as some
important projects such as the International
Market, State University, Airport, Medical Center
(University), and Ecumenical Center would be
energized, with multiplier effect including
provision of employment opportunities.
The RTM Enugu Region was accompanied on the
inspection by the AGM(T) Enugu Sub Region,
Engr. Charles Iwuamadi, the Regional Operations
Manager (ISO), Engr. Mike Nwagu, Principal
Manager(Grid Metering), Engr. Stephen Okoye,
SM(PC&M) Engr. Titus Onyia and the Regional
Public Affairs Manager Enugu Region Mrs. Mary
Philip Udom.
INSPECTION
NUEE URGES TCN STAFF BENIN
REGION TO ENHANCE PRODUCTIVITY
T
he General Secretary, Nigeria Union of
Electricity Employees (NUEE), Comrade
Joe Ajaero, has urged staff of Benin
Regional office of TCN to put in their best to
enhance productivity in the service of the
Company.
Comrade Ajaero gave the charge when he paid
a one-day working visit to the Benin Regional
Office on Wednesday, 22nd September 2021,
in Benin City, to interact with the staff on some
industrial issues.
He noted that TCN was one of the best
companies in the Nigeria Electricity Supply
September 2021/ ISSUE 31
By Rufus Imafidon
Industry (NESI) as far as staff welfare is concerned and
described the present TCN Management as labour-
friendly.
He further enjoined TCN Benin Regional staff to
endeavor to maintain their number one position among
the regions by putting more effort to lift the Company to
an enviable height, assuring that all issues bordering on
casual staff were being addressed by the Union. “We
have solved the same issue in System Operations and
very soon, the ones in TSP would be a thing of the past,”
he said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Regional Transmission
Manager (RTM) Benin Region, Engr. Isaac Okpe
thanked Comrade Ajaero and his team for the visit and
noted that the Region was known for maintaining cordial
relationship with the Union.
Engr. Okpe said he was proud of Benin Region staff in
making the Region first among others in ensuring
system stability and urged them to sustain the tempo as
Management was there to address their concerns.
On his part, the Assistant General Manager (Technical
Services), Benin Region, Engr. M. Abdulazeez thanked
the General Secretary and his team for a job well done
and charged them to put the interest of workers
uppermost in their plans.
CONFERMENT September 2021/ ISSUE 31

“Conferment”

Engr. Dr. Geoffrey Nwokoye, GM, (Engineering) on, his Engr. Dr. Kazeem Bakare, RTM, Osogbo Region,on his
conferment of Doctor of Science degree in Engineering conferment as Fellow, during the 18th NSE Fellowship and
& Project Management by the European American University Conferment ceremony

Engr. Shehu Abba-Aliyu, GM (SP&D), on his conferment Engr. Musa Bukar Izah, AGM (DSS&IPP), on his
as Fellow, during the 18th NSE Fellowship and conferment as Fellow, during the 18th NSE
Conferment ceremony Fellowship and Conferment ceremony

Engr. Godwin Afam Aguiyi, S.A. to the

Ag. MD/CEO TCN, on his conferment as Fellow, NIPE
 PHOTO September 2021/ ISSUE 31

PHOTO SPEAK

The Chairman WAPP Executive Board/Ag. MD-CEO of TCN, the MD of Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited, and others visited the
project site of International Coordination Center (ICC) in Cotonou to inspect the project

Nigerian Air Force delegation led by Air Vice Marshall Remigus Nnamdi Ekeh, met with TCN Management to discuss TCN's aircraft
parked at the Kaduna Military Airport

TCN Management led by the Ag. MD/CEO, Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz and Executives of National Union of Electricity Employees, NUEE,
led by the Gen. Sec. Comrade Joe Ajearo meet to discuss specific staff and operational issues.
GRID MAP September 2021/ ISSUE 31
PHOTO September 2021/ ISSUE 31

PHOTO SPEAKS

Ag. MD/CEO TCN, Engr. Dr. Sule Abdulaziz delivering the opening address at the hearing on dispute settlement between
Market Operations and Market Participants

Renovation of 30MVA 132 33kV Transformer at Ijora 132kV Transmission Substation by TCN engineers
WORLD SEARCH PUZZLE
 STOP!
BEFORE YOU BUY THOSE CABLES,
TOWER PARTS, ANGLE IRONS,
AND TRANSFORMERS,
BE SURE YOU
KNOW THEIR SOURCE…

Buying stolen equipment is as

d as
bastealing them
ourself
y .
Every TCN equipment vandaliz
ed and sold,
amounts to sabotag
e to the nat
ion
SO…
·Be secur
ity consciousways
al
·Report all quest
ionable mo
vement ar
ound TCN installations
·Don't dest
troy/steal po
wer equipment.
·Don't aid or abet an
yone doing so
.
·Don't buy vandaliz
ed items.
·Shun illegal activities impedingwer
posuppl
y.

Stop the vandals…!

It is your civic duty to Nigeria
Report all suspicious activities around power installations to security operatives
or TCN offices closest to you

...transmitting electricity in the most efficient and effective manner

Page 18 Transmission Company of Nigeria