Nigeria’s Federal Government has introduced emergency measures to restore electricity to northern states following the prolonged blackout caused by the vandalism of the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line, Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu announced Monday.
After briefing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the situation, Adelabu explained to State House reporters that efforts are underway to activate an alternative power source via the Ikot Ekpene substation, which receives power from the Calabar plant.
However, this line also sustained damage and is undergoing repairs.
“We have explored the alternative of providing light to the north through the Ikot Ekpene substation, but the line was cut. Efforts are currently focused on fixing this line as well,” Adelabu stated.
Adelabu added that the Ministry of Power recently secured approval from the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to upgrade the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line, a critical supply line for northern Nigeria.
The ongoing power disruption affects around 17 northern states
Adelabu confirmed that the “disturbance” originated from the vandalization of the Shiroro-Kaduna line, the main source of electricity for the region.
“We discussed the root cause, which was vandalization of the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line, and it’s been our priority to address this swiftly,” Adelabu said.
The government’s efforts underscore the urgent need to protect and upgrade critical infrastructure to ensure reliable power supply to the affected northern states.
