FG Warns Stakeholders On Dangers Of Electricity Assets Vandalism

In a renewed effort to safeguard critical power infrastructure and ensure public safety, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) hosted a sensitisation programme in Kaduna to enlighten host communities on the dangers of building under transmission lines and the increasing threat of vandalism.

The general manager Kaduna Region, Engr Nasir Mansur S Fada, highlighted the importance of community support in achieving uninterrupted power supply. He revealed that new transformers have been installed in several locations, and numerous expansion and upgrade projects are currently ongoing. However, he stressed that these efforts can only succeed if host communities actively support the protection of power installations.

“We are committed to delivering improved power supply, but this cannot be realised if our infrastructure is constantly under threat from vandals and illegal structures built under transmission lines,” the general manager said.

The event, which drew the presence of traditional rulers, youth leaders, stakeholders, and members of the press, formed part of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC)’s directive and TCN’s broader commitment to tackling encroachment and infrastructure vandalism.

To enhance public awareness, heads of key technical departments—including the System Lines and Electrical Departments—delivered presentations on the grave risks associated with encroachment on TCN’s Right of Way. They explained how illegal structures hinder maintenance work and endanger the lives of residents living too close to high-voltage lines.

The Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Department also provided critical guidance on how to safeguard lives and property by staying clear of transmission corridors. They emphasized that proximity to high-voltage equipment can lead to electrocution, fires, and other life-threatening hazards.

In a bid to foster community vigilance, TCN distributed dedicated hotline numbers to attendees, 07016839880, 09088380966, 09088380967, urging them to report any act of vandalism or suspicious activity near transmission facilities. “The community is our first line of defense,” a representative from the Public Affairs Department noted. “We are counting on traditional institutions, youth groups, and stakeholders to help us protect this infrastructure.”

The sensitisation programme concluded with an interactive session, where participants shared local challenges and pledged their cooperation. Community leaders lauded the initiative and expressed their willingness to collaborate with TCN to ensure a safer and more stable power supply.