TCN launches emergency repair of 100MVA transformer at Apo Substation

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has launched an emergency repair operation at the Apo Transmission Substation in Abuja following the sudden failure of a major 100MVA power transformer in the early hours of Friday.

The incident has caused a temporary capacity deficit at the strategic substation, forcing grid managers to implement emergency load-redirection measures to maintain power supply to affected residents.

According to an official statement released on Saturday by TCN’s General Manager of Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, the system disturbance began at approximately 12:56 a.m. on May 22, 2026.

The 100MVA 132/33kV power transformer reportedly tripped on a differential relay indication, a protective mechanism designed to shut down equipment during critical faults despite being on no-load at the time.

Initial inspections by the TCN maintenance crew revealed significant oil spillage around the massive transformer. Further technical diagnostics identified severe faults deep within the unit’s red and yellow phase 33kV bushings.

As of press time, TCN engineers have successfully resuscitated the red phase bushing, while intensive repair work continues on the yellow phase component.

To prevent widespread blackouts across the federal capital, TCN has officially directed the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) to execute a temporary load-switching strategy.

AEDC has been instructed to reroute electricity supply for customers tied to the outgoing 33kV feeders of the crippled Apo transformer, sourcing power instead from alternative, functional TCN feeders across its franchise network until repairs are finalized.

While TCN did not provide an exact hour for full restoration, management emphasized that technical teams are working assiduously around the clock to bring the 100MVA transformer back online.

The transmission company expressed its sincere apologies to AEDC and the electricity customers affected by the service disruption, noting that all hands are on deck to restore normalcy as quickly as possible.