The Federal Government has commenced construction of a 132/33 kilovolt electricity transmission substation in Mashi Local Government Area of Katsina State with a capacity of 120 megavolt-amperes. The Transmission Company of Nigeria is executing the project, which is scheduled for completion by March 2027. The substation will comprise two 60MVA transformers, providing combined transmission capacity of 120MVA, equivalent to approximately 96 megawatts, according to the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, who spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony on Friday.
Tegbe said the facility would strengthen the transmission network and improve electricity delivery to Katsina and surrounding areas. He explained that the project was designed to support farmers, traders, artisans and households by strengthening the electricity infrastructure needed for economic growth and improved living conditions. The minister commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting investments in the power sector, stating that reliable infrastructure was essential to achieving the administration's economic development objectives.
Tegbe disclosed that compensation issues affecting the project had been resolved and urged the contractor, supervising engineers and TCN officials to ensure quality delivery within the stipulated timeframe. He emphasised that with completion scheduled for March 2027, disciplined execution was essential, calling for strict attention to quality at every stage from design to equipment manufacture, civil works, installation and testing. The minister also urged residents of Mashi to protect the facility against vandalism and report suspicious activities during and after construction.
Katsina State Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda expressed appreciation to Tinubu for approving three transmission substation projects for the state, describing them as important investments in economic development and electricity supply. Radda cited the ongoing railway construction linking Kano, Daura and Katsina as another major infrastructure investment expected to benefit the state. He also disclosed that components for a proposed 10-megawatt hybrid power project combining wind and solar energy had arrived in Nigeria, involving collaboration between the Federal and Katsina State governments.
The stronger electricity infrastructure will enable businesses and households in Katsina to access more reliable power for economic activities and daily needs. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by officials of the Federal Ministry of Power, TCN, Kano Electricity Distribution Company, Katsina State Government representatives, traditional rulers, local government officials and other stakeholders.