The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has raised an alarm over a recent surge in vandalism of its power infrastructure, with over 18 transmission towers vandalized across Rivers, Abia, and Kano States between January 9 and 14, 2025.
According to the TCN, the vandalism has compromised the stability of the towers and affected power supply to several areas.
The company in a statement issued by the General manager Public affairs, Ndidi Mbah on Sunday appealed to Nigerians to support efforts to protect the nation’s power infrastructure, emphasizing that the transmission network is a collective asset essential for socioeconomic development.
The TCN reported that routine patrols by linesmen on January 10, 2025, uncovered damage to towers 171 through 181 and tower 184. In Rivers State, vandals targeted towers 146, 147, and 149 along the Owerri/Ahoada 132kV line, removing base brackets and compromising the stability of the towers.
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In Abia State, the TCN reported the theft of bolts, nuts, and structural members from towers 160 to 162 on the Alaoji/Umuahia 132kV line.
In Kano, towers 105, 106, and 107 along the Katsina-Gazoua 132/33kV transmission line were critically damaged by vandals on January 9, 2025.
The TCN says it has bolstered security measures, increased lines patrol, and collaborated with security operatives to address the issue.
The company has warned that the persistent vandalism poses a significant challenge to its grid expansion plans, with the financial implications of constant repairs straining its resources.
Mbah Said: “The vandals and those who buy stolen materials are sabotaging the nation. All hands must be on deck to ensure the growth of the nation’s power sector, which is critical to the development of our country.”
(Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie)
