TCN Upgrades Alaoji–Onitsha Line to Boost South East Power

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has begun upgrading the 138km Alaoji–Onitsha 330kV transmission line, a project aimed at boosting electricity supply in the South East.

According to a statement, the upgrade, supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB), will replace the existing single-circuit line with a 330kV double-circuit quad-conductor line, quadrupling transmission capacity.

Compensation was paid to affected residents across eight LGAs in Abia and Imo States between March 31 and April 2, 2026, as part of the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP).

AfDB project official Aromeh Adole said residents have been given a 90-day grace period to vacate the right of way.

“The new line will deliver four times that capacity, fundamentally transforming bulk power delivery in the South East,” he explained.

Acting project manager Edeh Alexander commended President Tinubu for releasing counterpart funds to ensure timely compensation, and praised TCN’s leadership for driving progress.

Alexander noted that the upgrade will significantly increase electricity transmission to Alaoji, Port Harcourt, Abia State, and the wider South East, while reducing losses and improving grid reliability.

The project is expected to be completed within 18 months, forming part of TCN’s broader strategy to expand the national grid and strengthen supply to industrial and residential hubs.

TCN said the initiative reflects its commitment to modernising Nigeria’s transmission infrastructure and ensuring more reliable power delivery nationwide.