Power Minister Commissions Transformers to Boost Electricity Supply in Katsina

The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, has commissioned two 60-megavolt-ampere (MVA) power transformers at the Kankia Transmission Substation in Katsina State, increasing its installed capacity by 150 per cent to strengthen electricity supply to communities served by the facility.

The transformers, rated at 132/33 kilovolts (kV), replace an existing 30MVA unit and raise the substation’s installed capacity from 60MVA to 150MVA, equivalent to approximately 120 megawatts (MW).

Speaking at the commissioning on Friday, Tegbe said the upgrade would create opportunities for businesses, agricultural processing and other economic activities by strengthening electricity infrastructure in Kankia and neighbouring communities.

“For the people of Kankia and the communities served by this substation, today’s commissioning is about greater opportunity: the opportunity to run a business, process agricultural produce and sustain a livelihood with stronger electricity infrastructure behind you,” the minister said.

He explained that the additional capacity would help meet previously unmet electricity demand and improve bulk power supply to the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) for onward distribution to consumers.

Tegbe urged the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) and KEDCO to coordinate their operations to ensure that the new infrastructure translates into improved electricity supply.

“To TCN, NISO and KEDCO, I urge close coordination so that this additional capacity translates into better service as electricity becomes available. Maintain the equipment diligently and keep the needs of consumers at the centre of your work,” he said.

The minister said the project, delivered through the Federal Ministry of Power and TCN, reflected President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and its emphasis on strengthening critical infrastructure.

He commended Tinubu for placing reliable electricity at the centre of Nigeria’s development agenda, saying investments in the power sector should support production, create economic opportunities and improve living conditions.

Tegbe also acknowledged the contributions of China Energy Engineering Group Jiangsu Power Design Institute, the project contractor, as well as the engineers, technicians and other personnel who executed the project.

He thanked Katsina State Governor Dikko Umar Radda for his support and partnership, while commending traditional institutions and host communities for their contributions to the project.

The commissioning forms part of efforts to strengthen transmission infrastructure and expand the capacity to deliver electricity to distribution companies and consumers.

However, the minister’s call for coordination among the transmission and distribution operators underscores the importance of effective power evacuation and distribution in ensuring that increased substation capacity translates into more reliable electricity for end users.