As Abdulaziz leads TCN remarkable strides in transforming Nigeria’s power grid

Omeiza Bilal

In the heart of Nigeria’s evolving energy landscape, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) stands as a pivotal force, ensuring the seamless flow of bulk electricity from generation plants to distribution centers nationwide.

Established under the Electric Power Sector Reform Act of 2005, TCN has long been the backbone of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). However, under the stewardship of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Engr. (Dr.) Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz, the company has undergone a profound transformation, marked by unprecedented project completions, digital innovations, and enhanced operational efficiency.

Strategic vision

Engr. (Dr.) Abdulaziz, a seasoned electrical engineer with over 30 years of experience, assumed the role of MD/CEO after serving in acting capacity and as Regional Transmission Manager for Shiroro and Abuja. His credentials are impressive: a Master’s in Electronic/Automation Engineering from Bulgaria’s Technical University, fellowships in multiple engineering institutes, and leadership positions in regional bodies like the West African Power Pool (WAPP).

“Our focus has been on building a world-class transmission company through systematic programs like the Nigerian Electricity Grid Maintenance, Expansion, and Rehabilitation Program (NEGMERP),” Abdulaziz stated in a recent address to stakeholders.

NEGMERP has been the cornerstone of TCN’s progress, enabling the execution of capital projects that have bolstered grid capacity from 8,700 MW at high-voltage levels. Notably, TCN achieved an all-time generation peak of 5,802 MW and maintained grid stability for 421 days without collapse from July 20, 2022, to September 13, 2023. This stability is a far cry from the frequent outages that plagued the system in previous years.

Supporting Abdulaziz is a dynamic management team. Executive Director of Transmission Service Provider, Engr. Dr. Oluwagbenga Emmanuel Ajiboye, brings 28 years of expertise in network operations. “We’ve coordinated projects that enhance system reliability,” Ajiboye noted.

Mrs. Abiodun Foluso Afolabi, Executive Director of Human Resources and Corporate Services, emphasizes talent management: “Our workforce is our greatest asset; investing in them drives innovation.” Mr. Chukwuka Ogini Ochije, Executive Director of Finance and Accounts, has strengthened internal controls, ensuring fiscal accountability.

Energising the nation

TCN’s project delivery under Abdulaziz has been nothing short of revolutionary. Through NEGMERP, the company has completed numerous substations, re-conductored aging lines, and upgraded transformers. In 2025 alone, over 30 transformer projects were energized, adding hundreds of megawatts to the grid.

Highlights include the 150MVA transformer at Delta Subregion, boosting capacity to 532MVA, and the 300MVA unit at Jos Substation, adding 240MW. In Lagos, projects at Ajah, Agbara, and Ogba substations have increased wheeling capacities significantly. “These initiatives have positively impacted socio-economic activities by enabling DisCos to offtake more power,” said a TCN spokesperson.

Multilateral-funded projects have amplified these efforts. The African Development Bank (AfDB)-backed Nigeria Transmission Expansion Project (NTEP) is 36-63% complete in lots involving 330kV lines and substations in Kano, Kaduna, and other states, promising 1,500MW additional capacity. The Agence Française de Développement (AFD) Abuja Feeding Scheme is nearing completion at 77-95%, providing new corridors into the capital. World Bank projects have rehabilitated substations nationwide, achieving 85-100% progress.

The Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), in collaboration with FGN Power Company, targets 25,000MW capacity. TCN’s involvement includes Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with DisCos for over 50 interface projects, funded by Central Bank loans. New substations in Ogbomosho, Amasiri, Ogoja, and Lafia, along with completed lines like Ikorodu-Odogunyan and Oshogbo-Ede, underscore this expansion.

Ongoing re-conductoring of 17 lines, such as Gombe-Biu-Damboa (394km) and Shiroro-Mando (104km), addresses capacity constraints. Awarded contracts for 23 more lines further reinforce the grid.

Digital leap

Before Abdulaziz’s tenure, grid management relied on manual logs and emails. Today, TCN’s digital leap is evident. The upgraded NSONG platform facilitates transparent data exchange, with tools like the Generator Dispatch Tool (GDT) and Distribution Dispatch Tool (DDT) ensuring merit-based load allocation. “NSONG has eliminated errors from verbal data transmission, fostering trust,” Abdulaziz explained.

An in-house IoT solution has achieved full generator visibility and substantial substation monitoring at the National Control Centre (NCC). A new SCADA/EMS contract, signed in 2022, replaces outdated systems, with control centers in Osogbo and Gwagwalada advancing.

Digitisation extends to old substations, Automated Meter Reading (AMR), and ICT initiatives like Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), mini data centers, and CCTVs. “These tools automate processes, enhancing efficiency,” the company said.

Employee welfare, stakeholder harmony

Abdulaziz’s administration prioritizes a conducive work environment. Renovations and new facilities in Lagos, Kano, Abuja, Ihovbor, Owerri, and Uyo reflect this. Continuous training programmes have built a skilled workforce, enabling in-house feats like breaker replacements and insulator repairs.

Industrial harmony reigns, with unions SSAEAC and NUEE collaborating seamlessly. “The MD/CEO’s inclusive approach has ended conflicts,” a union representative remarked.

Stakeholder relations have improved, ending media blame games. SLAs with DisCos and engagements with GenCos, regulators, and communities foster cooperation. Anti-vandalism efforts, including sensitisations and ONSA partnerships, have led to arrests in Katsina and Benue.

Combating challenges: Maintenance and anti-vandalism

Responsive maintenance has replenished stores with transformers, switchgears, and vehicles, reducing downtime. Vegetation clearing reduced faults, while erosion control protected 250 towers. Firewalls, roads, and fences enhance safety.

The Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) booklet resolves landowner issues, accelerating projects.

Looking ahead: Sustainability, growth

TCN’s future focuses on financial sustainability through network expansion, eligible customers, and OPGW optimization. System reliability will advance via reinforcements, spares, and automation. Grid expansion integrates renewables, with potential projects like 330kV lines from Ikot Ekpene-Benin (300km) and reactors for voltage control.

Digital transformation includes work order systems and asset software. Human capital optimization emphasizes strategy, training, and engagement. Branding efforts will boost awareness, while partnerships with DisCos and research institutions drive innovation.

“By prioritizing reliability, innovation, and collaboration, TCN aims to solidify its role as Nigeria’s transmission powerhouse,” Abdulaziz affirmed.

As Nigeria’s population surges and economy diversifies, TCN’s achievements under Abdulaziz offer hope for a brighter, electrified future. Yet, sustained investment and policy support are crucial to realize the full potential of these strides.