The 330kV North Core Interconnection Project of the West African Power Pool will soon be completed.
Chairman of the WAPP Executive Board, Engr. (Dr.) Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz, who disclosed this at the 9th Meeting of the Joint Supervision Committee held in Abuja recently, said the development raises expectations of improved electricity supply and stronger grid integration across West Africa.
He was represented at the event by the organisation’s General Manager and Programme Coordinator, Engr. Aminu Tahir.
Abdulaziz, who doubles as the Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria, said after completion, the project would significantly boost grid reliability, lower electricity costs, and provide more stable power supply to critical sectors including healthcare, education, and manufacturing across participating countries.
He noted that the project represents a practical demonstration of regional cooperation capable of stabilising national grids and driving cross-border economic activities.
He hinted that the project is already delivering benefits through job creation and capacity development in member states.
He acknowledged persistent challenges, particularly security issues and logistical constraints, which have continued to affect timelines and operations.
According to him, safeguarding personnel and infrastructure remains critical to successful delivery.
Abdulaziz also commended the support of development partners such as the African Development Bank and the World Bank, while calling for sustained transparency, accountability, and efficient use of resources as the project advances.
He urged stakeholders to accelerate implementation, warning that delays directly impact millions of people relying on improved electricity access.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fast-tracking progress along the Northern Corridor, a key component of the project.
Speaking, WAPP Secretary General Abdoulaye Dia, represented by Kodjo Afidegnon, said the project had reached 56 per cent overall physical completion as of December 31, 2025.
He said that 728.7 kilometres of transmission corridors had been cleared out of the planned 880 kilometres, while 5,692 affected persons had received compensation.
He noted that while progress has been steady, ongoing security and logistical challenges in parts of the region continue to delay timelines and increase costs, underscoring the need for sustained collaboration among member states and partners.
