By Raphael Ekpang, APEC Secretary General
The return of Engr. (Dr.) Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz as Managing Director/CEO of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) goes beyond routine reappointment—it opens a crucial window to solidify reforms and fast-track progress in Nigeria’s fragile electricity ecosystem. At the heart of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), transmission remains the pivotal link between generation and distribution, and Abdulaziz’s leadership could determine how effectively that link performs in the years ahead.
Experience Meets Opportunity
With over two decades of hands-on experience spanning NEPA, PHCN, and now TCN, Abdulaziz brings rare institutional memory and technical depth to the role. Having served as Acting MD in 2020 before his substantive appointment in 2022, he has already demonstrated a firm grasp of system operations, project delivery, and sector coordination.
His first tenure delivered notable gains—improved grid stability, expanded transmission infrastructure, enhanced coordination across the value chain, and stronger internal systems. These milestones now provide a launchpad for more ambitious reforms.
Stabilising the Grid, Expanding Capacity
Nigeria’s national grid has long been plagued by instability and capacity constraints. Under Abdulaziz, transmission capacity has climbed to about 6,000MW, with projections pushing toward and beyond 8,700MW.
His second term is expected to double down on:
- Expanding transmission lines and substations nationwide
- Deploying advanced grid management technologies
- Reducing technical losses through smarter load balancing
If successfully executed, Nigeria could, for the first time, align transmission strength with generation capacity—closing a long-standing gap in the power sector.
Modernising Critical Infrastructure
Transmission remains one of the most capital-intensive segments of the power sector. Abdulaziz has already shown an ability to harness funding from international partners while maintaining structured project execution.
The next phase will likely focus on:
- Accelerating World Bank and AfDB-backed projects
- Introducing real-time monitoring through smart grid systems
- Rehabilitating aging transmission assets
Modern infrastructure is not just about reliability—it is key to unlocking investor confidence across the energy value chain.
Improving Sector Synergy
One of the quieter but impactful shifts under Abdulaziz has been improved collaboration between TCN, generation companies (GenCos), and distribution companies (DisCos). By fostering a more cooperative approach, bottlenecks in bulk power delivery have been reduced.
Looking ahead, deeper coordination could:
- Minimise stranded generation
- Improve energy dispatch efficiency
- Strengthen regulatory alignment
A more synchronized system ultimately translates into better electricity delivery for end users.
Building Human Capacity and Institutional Strength
Beyond infrastructure, Abdulaziz has placed emphasis on workforce development and industrial harmony—areas often overlooked in sector reforms. Stable labour relations and continuous training have helped sustain operations without disruption.
His second tenure could expand this through:
- Advanced technical training in grid automation
- Leadership development within TCN
- Sustained industrial peace
A skilled and stable workforce will be critical for long-term sector resilience.
Advancing Regional Power Integration
TCN’s role extends beyond Nigeria’s borders. Through the West African Power Pool (WAPP), the country is positioned as a key player in regional electricity trade.
Under Abdulaziz, cross-border initiatives have gained momentum, including synchronization efforts with neighbouring power systems. Continued progress could:
- Boost electricity exports
- Strengthen Nigeria’s position as a regional energy hub
- Generate additional foreign exchange
This regional dimension significantly broadens the economic impact of TCN’s operations.
The Value of Continuity
Frequent leadership changes have historically slowed progress in Nigeria’s power sector. Abdulaziz’s reappointment offers something rare—continuity.
This stability allows for:
- Completion of ongoing projects
- Sustained reform momentum
- Policy consistency
For stakeholders, continuity may prove just as important as innovation.
Transmission as the True Enabler
While public discourse often centres on generation capacity, transmission remains the real game changer. Without a robust transmission network, additional megawatts cannot translate into reliable electricity supply.
Under Abdulaziz’s renewed leadership, TCN has the potential to move from a bottleneck to a catalyst—unlocking stranded energy, stabilising the grid, and supporting economic growth.
Final Analysis
Abdulaziz’s second tenure represents more than a continuation—it is a test of scale and execution. The groundwork has been laid; the challenge now is to convert plans into measurable outcomes.
If momentum is sustained, this phase could mark a shift from incremental gains to genuine transformation—where megawatts generated are efficiently transmitted, and reforms are felt not just on paper, but in homes, businesses, and industries across Nigeria.
