The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has defended the execution of solar streetlight projects valued at N1.28 billion, stating that the projects were National Assembly Constituency Interventions and not initiatives outside its statutory mandate. The clarification followed a publication by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), which alleged that the company spent the funds on projects unrelated to its core responsibilities.

‎In a statement, TCN said the projects cited in the report were included in the Federal Government’s approved appropriation budget and nominated by members of the National Assembly for vulnerable communities. According to the company, it neither initiated nor requested the projects but was designated as the implementing agency in line with established government practice.

The company explained that the funds used for the projects were Federal Government appropriations approved by the President and not sourced from its Internally Generated Revenue. It added that all payments were processed through the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) in compliance with extant financial regulations, while procurement received the necessary approvals from relevant agencies, including the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP).

‎TCN maintained that, beyond its responsibility for operating the nation’s 330kV and 132kV transmission network, it has consistently carried out public sensitisation on protecting electricity infrastructure from vandalism and bush burning. It noted that improved street lighting in vulnerable communities enhances security, reduces vandalism and theft, and contributes to safeguarding the national grid.

According to the company, the projects executed in Jigawa, Kano and Kogi states were undertaken at the request of the National Assembly to improve security, enhance visibility, stimulate socio-economic activities, and protect critical power infrastructure in the benefiting communities.

The transmission company stressed that implementing constituency and other Federal Government projects assigned to it does not amount to a departure from its statutory mandate of transmitting bulk electricity nationwide. It added that no law prohibits a government agency from executing projects assigned by the National Assembly or other arms of government, provided due process is observed under the Public Procurement Act, 2007.

‎TCN also addressed concerns over payments made to Au Step Nigeria Limited, Empire Technical Projects Construction Services Limited, and Ideal Engineering & Construction Company Limited, saying all procurements complied with the Public Procurement Act. It said qualified contractors were engaged and that the projects are being monitored to ensure quality delivery and measurable benefits for the affected communities.

‎The company appealed to media organisations and other stakeholders to verify information with it before publication to promote balanced and accurate reporting. It reaffirmed its commitment to the transparent execution of government-assigned projects while continuing to fulfil its primary responsibility of transmitting bulk electricity across Nigeria.