The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) yesterday announced in Abuja that armed group attacked its 330/132/33kV transmission substation construction site in Obajana, Kogi State.
General Manager of TCN, Ndidi Mba, said the development resulted in damage to a critical power transformer component. The attack, which occurred at 11:55p.m. on November 12, Mba said involved a group of armed assailants who fired shots indiscriminately, causing the security personnel at the site to flee.
In the aftermath, she confirmed that the radiator of a 150MVA 330/132/33kV power transformer, positioned and awaiting commissioning, was severely damaged. The transformer, an essential piece of equipment in the substation, is expected to significantly boost power supply to Kogi and surrounding areas once the substation becomes operational. However, the incident has now placed the project at risk of delay.
TCN is currently working with the project contractor to assess the extent of the damage and the potential impact on the substation’s timeline,” Mbah said.
This incident is the latest in a series of attacks targeting Nigeria’s power infrastructure, adding to the financial and operational burdens on TCN and other energy stakeholders.
Vandalism and sabotage of critical energy infrastructure have become pressing concerns, with numerous incidents reported in various regions of the country.
The Obajana Transmission Substation, once completed was expected to be a 1X150MVA 330/132/33kV capacity facility. The substation’s commissioning is expected to alleviate electricity shortages in Kogi State, contributing to improved energy reliability and supporting economic growth in the region. However, these anticipated benefits face a setback due to the recent attack. (Guardian)
