The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a state-of-the-art Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to enhance the monitoring and management of the national power grid.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and funded by the World Bank, aims to address frequent power grid collapses and ensure a more stable electricity supply across the country.
At the launch event held at the National Control Centre (NCC) in Gwagwalada, Abuja, Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, represented by Emmanuel Nosike, acting Permanent Secretary, highlighted the transformative potential of the SCADA system.
Adelabu explained that the technology provides real-time monitoring of the grid’s performance, which will significantly improve response times to outages and optimize system load management.
The new system features automated data collection, fault detection, and remote-controlled operations, all aimed at modernizing Nigeria’s power infrastructure and integrating smart grid technologies.
This development is part of the Nigerian Electricity Transmission Access Project (NETAP), which focuses on improving energy security and expanding electricity access throughout Nigeria. It also aims to attract increased private sector investment and innovation in the energy market.
Managing Director of TCN, Sule Abdulaziz praised the successful demonstration of the SCADA system, emphasizing it as the culmination of years of effort to ensure a reliable power supply.
The SCADA system project, awarded in 2022, includes the installation of over 2,700 kilometers of optical ground wire along transmission routes, with repairs completed on approximately 2,500 kilometers of existing lines.
World Bank’s Country Director, Ndiame Diop noted that the SCADA project is currently 69% complete and is expected to be fully operational by mid-2025. Discussions are underway to extend the project timeline by six months to address any implementation delays.
This SCADA system represents a significant step towards enhancing the resilience of Nigeria’s national grid, promising a more stable and efficient power supply for the nation.
