The Nigerian Government has introduced an advanced Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) technology valued at $56 million to monitor the performance of the national power grid. This initiative, funded by the World Bank, aims to reduce frequent power grid collapses and improve supply reliability.
During a demonstration at the National Control Centre (NCC) in Gwagwalada, Abuja, Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu emphasized the transformative potential of the SCADA system for grid management. Represented by Emmanuel Nosike, the acting permanent secretary, Adelabu stated, “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.”
The system features automated data collection, fault detection, and remote-controlled operations, laying the groundwork for a more resilient power sector. Adelabu noted that this initiative aligns with the broader vision of achieving energy security and expanding electricity access under the Nigerian Electricity Transmission Access Project (NETAP). He highlighted the importance of modernizing power infrastructure and fostering an environment conducive to private sector investment in the energy market.
The Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) Sule Abdulaziz expressed that the successful demonstration of the system reflects the government’s commitment to reliable electricity supply. He revealed that the contract for the system was awarded in 2022 and includes the installation of 2,723 kilometers of optical ground wire along transmission routes, with repairs on approximately 2,500 kilometers of existing wiring.
World Bank Country Director Ndiame Diop represented by task team lead Bunu Burkar, stated that the project is currently 69 percent complete and is expected to be fully operational by mid-next year. He also mentioned ongoing discussions to extend the project timeline by six months to address implementation delays, reiterating the World Bank’s commitment to supporting the sector for enhanced energy reliability.
On August 20, TCN announced the commencement of SCADA system implementation to enable real-time monitoring and control of the power grid.
