By Adedapo Adesanya
Nigeria has introduced an advanced Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to enhance the monitoring and management of the national power grid.
This move, spearheaded by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), is funded by the World Bank and aims to reduce frequent power grid collapses while ensuring a more reliable electricity supply across the country.
During the launch event held at the National Control Centre (NCC) in Gwagwalada, Abuja, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, emphasized the significance of the SCADA system, which is valued at $56 million, in transforming the grid’s operational efficiency.
Represented by Mr Emmanuel Nosike, the acting Permanent Secretary, Mr Adelabu stated that the technology allows for real-time monitoring of the grid’s performance, improving response times to outages and optimizing system load management.
“The SCADA system will enable us to monitor the entire electricity network from a centralized location, ensuring prompt responses to outages, efficient load management, and optimized system performance,” Mr Adelabu explained.
He further highlighted that the system includes automated data collection, fault detection, and remote-controlled operations, all aimed at modernizing Nigeria’s power infrastructure and implementing smart grid technologies.
This development is part of the Nigerian Electricity Transmission Access Project (NETAP), which focuses on achieving energy security and expanding electricity access for Nigerians.
It also paves the way for increased private sector investment and innovation in the energy market.
On his part, Mr Sule Abdulaziz, Managing Director of TCN, praised the successful demonstration of the SCADA system, describing it as a result of years of effort by the government to ensure reliable power supply.
He noted that the contract for the system was awarded in 2022 and 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.
Representing the World Bank, Mr Ndiame Diop, Country Director, indicated that the SCADA project is currently 69 per cent complete and is expected to be fully operational by mid-2025.
He added that discussions are underway to extend the project timeline by six months to address any delays in implementation.
This SCADA system marks a crucial step towards enhancing the resilience of Nigeria’s national grid and ensuring a more stable and efficient power supply for the nation.