National grid collapse: TCN blames line tripping, says restoration work ongoing

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) says a series of lines and generator trippings caused instability of the grid that led to a partial disturbance.

According to a statement by Ndidi Mbah, TCN general manager (GM), public affairs, on Tuesday, the partial disturbance took place at about 1:52pm.

Ndidi also said while restoration is ongoing, data from the National Control Centre (NCC) showed that a part of the grid was not affected by the bulk power disruption.

“TCN engineers are already working to quickly restore bulk power supply to the states affected by the partial disturbance,” she said.

“Presently, bulk power supply has been restored to Abuja, at 2.49pm, and we are gradually restoring to other parts of the country.

“We sincerely apologize for every inconvenience this may cause our electricity customers.”

Earlier, the national grid collapsed for the ninth time in 2024, leading to a nationwide blackout.

On February 4, the first collapse was recorded.

The national grid collapsed again on March 28, April 15, July 6, and August 5.

Also, Nigerians experienced another blackout on October 14, October 15 and October 19.

On October 17, Adebayo Adelabu, minister of power, said the frequent system failure at the national grid is inevitable due to the outdated infrastructure.

The minister also said the country will continue to experience grid disturbances until there is a complete overhaul of the system.

Adelabu said more investment in power infrastructure will prevent future collapses.