RoW dispute stalls commissioning of Enugu transmission substation built by NDPHC since 2022
By Onu Okorie
A 132/33kV transmission substation in Enugu State completed by the Niger Delta Power Holding Company NDPHC in 2022 has remained idle for more than four years due to unresolved Right-of-Way RoW constraints delaying the completion of a key transmission line needed to energise the facility.
Officials of the Transmission Company of Nigeria TCN disclosed the development during a visit by the Senator representing Enugu West Senatorial District, Engr. Dr. Osita Ngwu, to the 9th Mile 132/33kV Transmission Substation on Saturday, July 11.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, by TCN General Manager GM Public Affairs Ndidi Mbah the senator was received by the Assistant General Manager, Transmission, Enugu Sub-Region, Engr. Madu, and other management staff, who briefed him on the challenges preventing the commissioning of the NDPHC-built substation.
Engr. Madu explained that although the substation was completed by NDPHC in 2022, it cannot be commissioned because the approximately 22-kilometre New Haven-9th Mile 132kV double-circuit transmission line has not been completed.
He identified unresolved Right-of-Way issues as the major obstacle delaying the transmission project, stressing that the line is essential for energising the substation.
According to him, once the transmission line is completed and the facility commissioned, the substation will significantly improve bulk electricity supply to the 9th Mile industrial hub and neighbouring communities, boosting economic activities in the area.
He also called for enhanced security around the facility to protect the critical infrastructure from vandalism while it awaits commissioning.
Responding, Senator Ngwu described the situation as requiring urgent attention and pledged to support efforts aimed at resolving the Right-of-Way constraints that have stalled the project.
The lawmaker also promised to work with relevant stakeholders to strengthen security around the facility to safeguard the infrastructure pending its eventual commissioning.
The visit ended with a guided tour of the control room, switchyard and other key installations at the substation.
