TCN expresses concern over rising cases of vandalism in Niger State
TCN Raises Alarm Over Vandalism of Power Infrastructure in Niger State
By Obas Esiedesa
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has expressed deep concern regarding the surge in vandalism targeting power transmission infrastructure in Niger State, stating that this trend presents significant economic, safety, and electricity supply challenges.
During a community engagement visit to Lambata in the Gurara Local Government Area on Tuesday, Engr. Musa Shuaibu, General Manager of the Abuja Region for TCN, described the frequency of attacks on transmission facilities as alarming.
Historically, vandalism in the region has been rare, but recent incidents have led to substantial financial losses and service disruptions. “We have been having challenges with our transmission lines. These lines have been vandalised repeatedly. It has never happened before in this area, but now it has become worrisome,” Shuaibu noted.
He reported that approximately 14 spans of conductors on the 132kV transmission line in Lambata were recently targeted, with an estimated repair cost of N32 million. “This is money that could have been used to improve power infrastructure and electricity supply elsewhere,” he added.
The over 40-year-old transmission line plays a crucial role in transporting electricity from Shiroro through Minna, Bida, and Suleja to Abuja. Shuaibu emphasized that vandalism of this infrastructure hampers economic activities, deters investments, and negatively impacts revenue generation.
In addition to economic concerns, Shuaibu highlighted potential safety hazards associated with fallen conductors, warning that residual voltage poses risks to residents, farmers, and livestock.
He appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, vigilante groups, and security agencies to collaborate in safeguarding critical national assets. Representatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Police assured their commitment to working together to apprehend and prosecute those responsible for vandalism.
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