Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has called for urgent intervention to resolve the Right-of-Way (RoW) challenges delaying the commissioning of the 9th Mile 132/33kV Transmission Substation in Enugu State.
The appeal was made during a visit by the Senator representing Enugu West Senatorial District, Engr. Dr. Osita Ngwu, to the facility.
The Senator was received by the Assistant General Manager (Transmission), Enugu Sub-Region, Engr. Madu, alongside other members of TCN’s management team.
Briefing the lawmaker, Engr. Madu explained that although the substation was completed by the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) in 2022, it has remained idle because the approximately 22-kilometre New Haven–9th Mile 132kV double-circuit transmission line required to energise the facility is yet to be completed.
He identified unresolved Right-of-Way constraints as the major obstacle to the project’s completion, stressing that the transmission line is essential for the commissioning of the substation.
According to him, once operational, the facility will significantly improve bulk electricity supply to the 9th Mile industrial hub and neighbouring communities, boosting economic activities and enhancing power reliability in the area.
Engr. Madu also highlighted the need for enhanced security to protect the substation from vandalism while it awaits commissioning.
Responding, Senator Ngwu acknowledged the strategic importance of the project and assured TCN of his commitment to supporting efforts to resolve the Right-of-Way issues delaying the transmission line.
He also pledged to work with relevant stakeholders to strengthen security around the facility in order to safeguard the critical national infrastructure.
The visit concluded with a guided tour of the control room, switchyard and other key installations at the substation, providing the Senator with a firsthand assessment of the project’s readiness for commissioning once the outstanding challenges are addressed.