TCN Restores Power in Northern Nigeria After Nine-Day Blackout

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has successfully restored bulk electricity supply to several northern states, including Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, and Gombe, following a prolonged nine-day blackout. The restoration was completed after repairs on the vandalized 330kV Ugwuaji-Apir transmission line, which had cut off power to these regions.

The blackout, which affected millions, came to an end at 4:56 p.m. on Wednesday, when TCN restored the Apir-Lafia 330kV transmission line 2, resuming partial electricity supply to the affected states. TCN’s General Manager for Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, confirmed the development, noting that efforts to restore additional power are still ongoing.

Mbah explained that repair work on the second 330kV transmission line will commence once TCN’s engineering team secures the site. “All necessary materials for the repairs are on hand, and work will begin as soon as the site is secured for the safety of our personnel,” she stated. As a precaution, teams of linesmen will also re-patrol the 330kV line 2 to check for any further damage.

“We appreciate your patience and understanding as our engineers work diligently to restore the 330kV transmission line 2. TCN recognises the importance of electricity in our daily lives and is committed to ensuring that this line is repaired swiftly, thereby increasing bulk power to the affected area,” Mbah added.

In Gombe State, residents confirmed receiving power for the first time in nine days, albeit briefly. A Gombe resident shared, “Power came back late Wednesday night, but it only lasted a few minutes. We’re still hopeful for a lasting solution.”

This partial restoration follows a meeting held in Kaduna earlier in the week, where northern leaders, including governors and traditional rulers, gathered to discuss the ongoing power outage and other regional challenges. Following the meeting, the federal government pledged to restore power within five days.

The temporary power restoration offers a sense of relief, but many affected communities are still calling for a long-term solution. Experts have urged TCN and the federal government to strengthen security around critical infrastructure to prevent future vandalism, which has become a major threat to Nigeria’s power supply stability.

Residents and business owners across northern Nigeria await full restoration and the consistent power supply they need to resume daily activities fully.