By Nnamdi Okosieme
The Transmission Company of Nigeria’s (TCN) 132/33kV substation in Apapa, Lagos has had it’s capacity increased threefold with the installation of two new 60MVA transformers.
Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, on Monday commissioned the project sponsored by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in strategic partnership with the TCN.
TCN’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Sule Abdulaziz, said the upgrade is in line with President Tinubu administration’s commitment to strengthening and expanding the nation’s transmission network to serve one of Lagos’ busiest industrial corridors. He disclosed that with the installation and energisation of the two new 60MVA power transformers, alongside the deployment of modern Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS), the capacity of this substation has tripled, from 60MVA to 180MVA.
He noted that it translates to a significant increase in the quantum of bulk power available for Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) to offtake for onward delivery to its customers in Apapa Causeway, Ijora, Amukoko, Ajegunle, Apapa Wharf, Tin Can Island, and other critical commercial zones within EKEDC’s franchise area, adding that this has also positively impacted quality of supply, while contributing to the economic productivity of Lagos State and the nation at large.
“The project was delivered by Takaoka Engineering Co. Ltd., the Japanese engineering and construction firm responsible for the design, supply, installation, and rehabilitation works under the Emergency Rehabilitation and Reinforcement of Lagos Transmission Substations project, of which this substation upgrade forms a key component. The Grant Agreement between the Federal Government of Nigeria and JICA was signed on 23rd November, 2018, while project implementation commenced in 2019 following preparatory surveys and grant mobilisation by Yachiyo Engineering Co. Ltd.
He appreciated the Federal Government and the Minister of Power for the successful delivery and commissioning of the project. He also thanked the Lagos State Government for providing an enabling environment for the successful execution of the project.
He said the upgrading of the equipment underscores TCN’s commitment to the modernisation of the nation’s transmission network, reduction of technical losses, and the stabilisation of the national grid to support economic growth across the country.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Government of Japan for this grant intervention. We also appreciate the Federal Ministry of Power, the Federal Ministry of Finance, our dedicated TCN engineers, contractors, and all stakeholders whose commitment and expertise brought this project to fruition”, he stated.
He appealled for similar grant support to be extended to other critical sections of TCN’s transmission network as it will enable it to continue to sustain and optimise transmission operations across the country in line with its mandate.
