Electricity in Nigeria: Ongoing Power Outages in Northeast Due to Vandalized TCN Towers

 

The Northeast region of Nigeria continues to experience persistent power outages as the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) faces repeated incidents of vandalism and tower collapses. Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s general manager of public affairs, reported these disruptions in a statement on Monday.

 

The latest incident occurred while TCN was working to repair four previously vandalized towers in the region. This comes despite TCN’s commitment to restoring electricity by the 27th of May. The governors of Northeast Nigeria have voiced their concerns over the ongoing power outages, but the situation remains dire due to new acts of vandalism.

 

"One of the new towers, T290, erected by TCN contractors along the Jos-Gombe 330kV transmission line, collapsed during the cable stringing process," Mbah stated. Additionally, the Makurdi-Jos 330kV double-circuit transmission line has also been vandalized, further compounding the problem.

 

TCN revealed that three towers along the Biu-Danbua 132kV transmission line were vandalized, with sixteen spans of conductors stolen. The affected towers include T1690, T1691, and T1692, all of which have collapsed. Contractors have been mobilized to commence reconstruction.

 

Moreover, TCN's patrol team discovered that tower T540 along the Makurdi-Jos 330kV double-circuit transmission line was vandalized, with sections removed but the tower still standing. Emergency repairs have been contracted to prevent its collapse.

 

TCN reiterated its commitment to restoring normal power supply through the distribution companies serving the Northeast and other affected areas. However, Mbah emphasized the need for collective efforts to protect these critical assets by being vigilant and reporting any suspected acts of vandalism promptly.

 

The Northeast region, including Gombe, Yobe, and Taraba states, has been struggling with power outages for over a month due to ongoing vandalism incidents.

 

"We urge everyone to join hands with TCN in safeguarding our collective assets to ensure a stable power supply," Mbah concluded.