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The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has commenced the construction of a critical turn-in-turn-out transmission infrastructure along the 330kV Jos–Bauchi–Gombe transmission line. The project is designed to connect the newly completed Bauchi 330kV Transmission Substation to the national grid, marking a significant step in enhancing power delivery to Nigeria’s northeastern region.

According to a press statement signed by TCN’s General Manager of Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, construction began on June 10, 2025, and is expected to be completed by June 14, 2025. The development underscores TCN’s ongoing efforts to expand and modernize the national transmission network to meet growing demand and ensure grid resilience.

During the construction period, bulk electricity supply to several parts of the northeast will be temporarily affected. Specifically, Gombe and Biu Transmission Substations will be powered through the Dadin-Kowa Hydro Power Plant and the Maiduguri Substation, with support from the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant (MEPP). However, areas served by the Jos and Yola Electricity Distribution Companies—including Bauchi, Gombe, Ashaka, Savannah, Damaturu/Potiskum, and Biu—will experience reduced power supply. The cities of Yola and Jalingo are expected to face full power outages throughout the five-day duration of the project.

In addition to the turn-in-turn-out connection, TCN is installing a new transmission tower to enhance system flexibility and operational resilience. Upon completion, the infrastructure will enable the Bauchi and Gombe Substations to serve as mutual backups during maintenance or unplanned faults. Furthermore, a 132kV line from Jos will provide an alternative power route to Bauchi Substation, ensuring continuous supply when the primary 330kV path via Gombe is unavailable.

“This arrangement is a strategic investment that will significantly improve power reliability, diversify transmission pathways, and boost emergency response capabilities in the region,” Mbah noted.

While acknowledging the inconvenience posed by the temporary power supply disruption, TCN appealed for the understanding and cooperation of affected electricity consumers. The company reiterated its commitment to delivering a stable and efficient bulk power supply across the country and assured that normal operations would resume immediately upon the project’s completion.

The connection of the new Bauchi Substation is seen as a crucial milestone in the ongoing effort to reinforce Nigeria’s power transmission backbone and advance regional electrification efforts in the Northeast.