Kano Electricity Distribution Company (Kano DisCo) has called for urgent intervention of the Federal Government in the electricity supply challenges faced by northwestern states under its franchise due to limitations in power transmission from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and the National Grid.
In a statement, the Kano DisCo urged the Federal Government to direct TCN to prioritise critical transmission projects, maintenance, and upgrade of existing facilities to improve power supply in the region.
The power distribution firm, which operates in three Northwestern states of Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa, explained that electricity supply to the Kano Complex relies on only two transmission routes through Kaduna and Jos, making the network highly vulnerable to outages and instability whenever faults occur.
It said the recent national grid collapse affected its distribution networks, leading to loss of power supply within the period.
Kano DisCo also lamented cases of vandalism and theft of power equipment and called for improved security, maintenance, and capacity expansion along key transmission corridors, particularly the Shiroro-Mando-Kano line, “to enhance reliability and reduce system vulnerability.”
It stated that the recent scheduled maintenance activities, including the installation of Optical Ground Wire (OPGW), have led to recurring weekend power outages, negatively impacting industries and residents.
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Kano DisCo therefore called for accelerated maintenance and improved transmission service delivery, emphasizing that a stable electricity supply is essential for economic growth and social welfare.
The power utility firm assured that given the current supply constraints, it will strategically manage available power to support industrial hubs and small-scale businesses.
The company also stated that it is collaborating with the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) “to improve service coordination and mitigate disruptions.”
“To reduce dependence on the national grid, KEDCO is fast-tracking embedded and distributed generation projects and working with investors on new power initiatives,” the DisCo stated.
The firm hailed the governments of Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states for increased investment in power infrastructure, including ongoing and planned generation projects such as hybrid, hydro, and gas power developments.
It reassured customers and stakeholders of its commitment to working with relevant authorities and partners to achieve a more reliable and sustainable electricity supply across the region.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist, scholar and analyst of socioeconomic issues in Nigeria and Africa. He is skilled in energy reporting, business and economy, and holds a master's degree in mass communication.
