Storm Ravages Key Power Line, TCN Declares Force Majeure On Ikeja-Osogbo Corridor
In a stark reminder of how vulnerable critical infrastructure can be to extreme weather, Nigeria’s power transmission network has suffered a significant setback following a violent storm.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has declared force majeure on the Ikeja West-Osogbo 330kV transmission line after a severe rainstorm struck on Thursday, 16 April 2026, causing a major fault and infrastructure collapse.
According to TCN, the transmission line tripped during the storm, with engineers tracing the fault to a point approximately 14.9 kilometres from the Ikeja West (Ayobo) end. Subsequent inspections revealed that Tower No. 515 had collapsed at its midsection, significantly disrupting operations along the corridor.
The development raises concerns over grid resilience, particularly as Nigeria continues to grapple with unstable power supply amid growing demand.
TCN said it has begun emergency response measures, including the mobilisation of materials and personnel to reconstruct the damaged tower.
Engineers are currently dismantling the affected structure to pave the way for re-erection.
Despite the setback, the company assured that an alternative transmission line remains operational, helping to sustain bulk power evacuation and limit widespread outages.
“We are working assiduously to restore flexibility and redundancy in the affected corridor,” the statement noted, adding that updates will be provided as restoration efforts progress.
The incident underscores the increasing impact of harsh weather conditions on Nigeria’s ageing power infrastructure, renewing calls for greater investment in grid modernisation and climate resilience.
Follow the Savinews Africa channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VawgaEL5vKA9Y5XTFg0n