By Jabiru Hassan
Compensation payments are set to commence for Project Affected Persons (PAPs) along the Mando–Rimin Zakara 330kV transmission line as preparations advance for the construction of the critical power infrastructure. The initiative is being implemented by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) in collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB).The announcement followed a sensitization programme held on January 14, 2026, in Rimin Zakara Community, Kano State. The event brought together traditional rulers from 25 affected communities, representatives of security agencies, government officials, and other key stakeholders.Among those in attendance was the Chairman of Kiru Local Government Area, Hon. Abdullahi Sa’id Muhammad, alongside community leaders whose lands and assets fall within the project corridor. The engagement focused on project scope, compensation procedures, and the roles of stakeholders in ensuring a smooth implementation process.
Speaking at the programme, the Director of Transmission at the Federal Ministry of Power, Engr. Abinbola Ominiyi, said the Mando–Rimin Zakara 330kV transmission line would significantly improve electricity supply and grid reliability in Kano State and surrounding areas. Engr. Ominiyi called for the cooperation of all stakeholders, particularly host communities, to facilitate timely completion of the project. He assured affected persons that compensation would be paid in line with established guidelines and international best practices.Also addressing participants, the Assistant General Manager (Transmission), Kano Region, Engr. Ibrahim Aliyu, who represented the General Manager, Transmission, Kano Region, Engr. M. K. Bello, disclosed that the Federal Government has released its portion of the compensation funds.
According to him, payment of compensation to Project Affected Persons along the Mando–Rimin Zakara 330kV transmission line is expected to begin between now and April 2026. He noted that the process is being coordinated to ensure transparency and timely disbursement.Providing details on the payment procedure, a consultant with Resource Field Nigeria Limited, Mr. David Ayomide Sanni, explained that compensation would be paid directly to beneficiaries by cheque. He said all affected persons must present valid Bank Verification Numbers (BVN), National Identification Numbers (NIN), and other relevant documents to qualify for payment.Mr. Sanni added that, beyond financial compensation, beneficiaries would also receive farm inputs at the conclusion of the exercise, in line with the project’s livelihood restoration plan.
The sensitization programme was aimed at ensuring that Project Affected Persons clearly understand the compensation framework, documentation requirements, and timelines. Stakeholders were encouraged to disseminate the information within their respective communities to prevent misinformation.According to a press statement issued to journalists by Ndidi Mbah, General Manager, Public Affairs, Transmission Company of Nigeria, the compensation exercise forms part of TCN’s commitment to mitigating the social and economic impact of transmission projects on host communities.
The Mando–Rimin Zakara 330kV transmission line is a key component of Nigeria’s power transmission expansion programme, designed to strengthen the national grid and support economic growth in northern Nigeria.
