The Transmission Company of Nigeria has commenced the implementation of a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) for the reconstruction and upgrade of the 138km Alaoji–Onitsha 330kV transmission line, marking a significant step toward expanding Nigeria’s National Grid.
The upgrade, carried out in partnership with the African Development Bank, will convert the existing single-circuit line into a 330kV double-circuit quad-conductor line, effectively quadrupling transmission capacity and improving efficiency across the South East region.
Compensation for Project Affected Persons (PAPs) along the transmission corridor in Abia and Imo states was conducted between March 31 and April 2, 2026, covering eight Local Government Areas. PAPs have been given a 90-day grace period to vacate the Right of Way (RoW) following the payment of compensation.
Aromeh Adole, Assistant General Manager for Health, Safety, and Environment, highlighted the significance of the project: “The existing line is a single circuit, while the new line will deliver four times that capacity, fundamentally transforming bulk power delivery in the South East.” The project is expected to be completed within 18 months.
Edeh Obiora Alexander, representing the Nigeria Transmission Expansion Project (NTEP-1), commended the leadership of TCN MD/CEO Sule Abdulaziz and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the timely release of counterpart funding to ensure fair compensation for PAPs.
The upgrade is designed to significantly increase the volume of electricity transmitted, improving supply to the Alaoji and Port Harcourt axes, Abia State, and across the South East. The transition to double-circuit quad-conductors will also reduce transmission losses and enhance overall grid reliability.
This initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader strategy to expand the national grid and deliver stable electricity to both industrial and residential hubs across Nigeria.
The project follows the approval of a ₦3.3 trillion payment plan to settle legacy debts in Nigeria’s power sector by President Bola Tinubu. The plan, covering debts accumulated between February 2015 and March 2025, has already seen ₦223 billion disbursed, with further payments ongoing.
The move comes after two nationwide grid collapses in January 2026, caused by aging infrastructure, generation constraints, and system disturbances. TCN said the Alaoji–Onitsha upgrade is a critical step toward improving resilience and ensuring reliable electricity delivery across the country.
