The World Bank, as one of the primary donor agencies supporting the Project Implementation Unit (PIU) within Nigeria's Transmission Company (TCN), has pledged substantial assistance for the implementation of critical transmission projects across the country.

Particular emphasis is placed on improving grid reliability through the implementation of the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System (SCADA). This commitment was conveyed during a recent courtesy visit to TCN's Management in Abuja by Mr. Ashish Khanne, the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria and Central Africa.

During the visit, Mr. Khanne commended TCN for successfully completing the Nigeria Electricity Transmission Project (NETAP), a World Bank-funded initiative, in the previous year. He expressed the World Bank's commitment to closely collaborate with TCN to strengthen the national grid. Notably, Mr. Khanne revealed that the Bank's Board had approved a substantial financial component in June 2023 for development partners involved in project implementation in Nigeria, a portion which would benefit TCN.    

In line with this support, Mr. Khanne emphasized the World Bank's vision of transforming TCN into a global leader in transmission. The strategy involves leveraging digitalization to streamline system processes, enhance contract management, and prepare for potential expansions in TCN's role in the future. He specifically highlighted the importance of the SCADA implementation, stating that it would enable TCN to become a flag bearer of system security and reliability, minimizing the possibility of future outages in Nigeria.

Furthermore, Mr. Khanne stated that the World Bank envisions TCN becoming one of the best transmission companies globally, with a focus on utilizing digital solutions to improve efficiency. This approach aligns with the anticipation of the government and stakeholders potentially expanding TCN's role in the future.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of TCN, Engr. Dr. Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz, welcomed the World Bank delegation and outlined specific areas where the bank's assistance was sought. These includes the implementation of SCADA, the execution of the 2nd National Control Centre (NCC), and addressing abandoned 330/132kV transmission lines and substation projects across the country. Engr. Abdulaziz also emphasized the critical need for a functional SCADA system in ensuring the security and stability of the national grid.

The visit also featured a presentation by the World Bank Group on Global Trends Affecting Transmission Utilities. This presentation covered various aspects, including access to financial markets, technology improvements, legal and regulatory changes, and institutional strengthening. Overall, the visit highlighted the collaborative efforts between TCN and the World Bank in advancing Nigeria's power sector and ensuring the reliability of the national grid.