National grid collapses for the 8th time in 2024, despite FG’s $56m technology investment
By Seun Ibiyemi
Despite the federal government’s investment of $56m technology to monitor the national power grid performance, Nigeria has once again plunged into a nationwide blackout following the collapse of its national grid system.
The total system collapse which led to total blackout in most parts of the country, is occurring for the eighth time in 2024.
Recall that the federal government unveiled an advanced supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) technology to monitor the national power grid performance.
The technology is said to be valued at $56 million.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) said the project was funded by the World Bank to reduce frequent power grid collapses and enhance supply reliability.
Checks confirmed that all distribution companies are currently receiving no power from the grid, leaving their feeders without electricity.
The Eko Electricity Distribution Company also addressed the situation with a statement to its customers on X (formerly Twitter), confirming the disruption in power supply.
“Dear Valued Customer, Kindly be informed there was a system collapse at 18:48hrs which has resulted to a loss of power supply across our network.
“We are currently working with our partners as we hope for speedy restoration of the grid. We will keep you updated as soon as the power supply is restored. Kindly bear with us,” Eko DisCo said.
Earlier in September, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, during a demonstration event at the national control centre (NCC) in Gwagwalada, Abuja, said the SCADA system plays a significant role in revolutionising the management of the grid.
Adelabu said the system allows for real-time monitoring of grid performance.
“The SCADA system will enable us to monitor the entire electricity network from a centralised location, ensuring prompt responses to outages, efficient load management, and optimised system performance,” Adelabu said.
“With features like automated data collection, fault detection, and remote-controlled operations, we are laying the foundation for a more resilient and responsive power sector.
