TCN Upgrades Ijora Substation with 200MVA Transformers, Raises Capacity to 230MVA
Oru Leonard
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has commissioned two new 100MVA, 132/33kV power transformers at its Ijora Transmission Substation in Lagos, increasing the facility’s installed transformation capacity from 90MVA to 230MVA.
TCN Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz, disclosed this on Monday, August 17, 2026, during the commissioning of the transformers.
According to Abdulaziz, the project represents another significant investment in critical electricity infrastructure and is aimed at strengthening the transmission network to meet Nigeria’s growing electricity demand.
He explained that the two new 100MVA transformers replaced two ageing 30MVA, 132/33kV transformers, providing an additional 140MVA of transformation capacity for electricity demand within the franchise area of Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC).
The TCN boss said the upgrade would enable the Ijora substation to deliver increased bulk power to EKEDC load centres, accommodate future load growth, reduce network constraints and improve operational flexibility and reliability.
“This upgrade delivers a more robust transmission substation capable of delivering increased bulk power to Eko Electricity Distribution Company’s load centres,” he said.
He added that the project was particularly important to Lagos State because of the strategic role of the area in the state’s commercial and industrial activities.
Abdulaziz said the Ijora project formed part of TCN’s nationwide programme to expand transmission infrastructure and ensure that electricity generated by power plants could be efficiently evacuated and delivered to distribution companies.
He stressed the need for transmission capacity to remain ahead of electricity generation, noting that TCN would continue to invest in substations, transformer upgrades, transmission lines and advanced grid technologies.
According to him, such investments are necessary to build “a stronger, more resilient, and more responsive transmission network” capable of supporting Nigeria’s long-term industrialisation and economic development.
The project, he disclosed, was funded by the World Bank and executed by Shanghai Electric Limited, describing the partnership as evidence of the confidence of development partners in TCN’s vision for Nigeria’s electricity transmission infrastructure.
The TCN Managing Director also linked the project to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly the administration’s emphasis on infrastructure development as a catalyst for economic growth and national prosperity.
He commended the Minister of Power, Mr. Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, for his strategic guidance and support towards the delivery of critical transmission projects across the country.
Abdulaziz also acknowledged the contributions of development partners, contractors, host communities, security agencies and TCN staff to the successful completion of the Ijora transformer project.
He, however, said the commissioning should be viewed as part of a broader effort to modernise Nigeria’s electricity transmission infrastructure.
“TCN will continue to pursue strategic investments that expand transmission capacity, improve grid resilience, and position the network to support Nigeria’s long-term aspirations for industrialisation, economic competitiveness, and sustainable development,” he said.
