TCN explains how over N8.8bn was used to fix damaged transmission towers caused by vandalism. Learn more about the efforts.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has reported expenditures exceeding ₦8.8 billion over the last eleven months for the repair of transmission towers vandalized by criminals throughout the nation.
Sule Abdulaziz, the Chief Executive Officer of TCN, shared this information during a quarterly meeting of the power sector working group in Abuja, with Olugbenga Ajiboye, the Executive Director of Transmission Service Provider (TSO), representing him.
The power sector is currently encountering significant challenges.
In an effort to address these issues, Adebayo Adelabu, the minister of power, announced that the federal government is partnering with the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB) to ensure that 50 million Nigerians gain access to electricity by 2030.
Represented by Adedayo Olowoniyi, chief technical adviser, Adelabu emphasized the collaboration between the power ministry and the finance ministry to facilitate this initiative.
He highlighted “Mission 300,” a project aimed at providing electricity to 300 million Africans, with Nigeria set to benefit from 50 million connections.
Adelabu noted the pressing need for electricity access in Nigeria and described the upcoming signing of the Compact document by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Tanzania in January 2025.
He stressed the importance of driving this initiative through both private and public sector involvement, utilizing solar systems, mini and micro grids, and grid extensions.
Acknowledging the limitations of extending the grid to all Nigerians due to funding and commercial viability concerns, he affirmed the government’s commitment to delivering electricity as a fundamental right, starting with home solar systems in areas where grid solutions are impractical.
Abdulaziz emphasized the severe extent of the damage, noting that 128 transmission towers have been compromised since January 13, severely impacting the country’s power transmission capabilities.
He expressed discontent with the legal system, indicating that those arrested for vandalism are frequently released on bail after being charged with theft, which undermines efforts to combat these crimes.
He advocated for more stringent enforcement and penalties to prevent further vandalism, highlighting the challenges faced by contractors who require military protection to safely restore damaged infrastructure.
Peoplesmind
