TCN Sensitises Residents of Lambata Community on the Dangers of Vandalism
By Raphael Ekpang
As part of its efforts to combat vandalism and protect critical power infrastructure, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has conducted a sensitisation campaign against the vandalism of transmission facilities and encroachment on transmission line right-of-way corridors in Lambata Community, Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State.
The campaign forms part of TCN’s ongoing efforts to safeguard transmission installations and ensure a more reliable bulk electricity supply across the country.
In his welcome address, the General Manager, Transmission, Engr. Musa Shuaibu, expressed appreciation to the district heads, security agencies, and other stakeholders for honouring TCN’s invitation. He explained that the sensitisation programme was necessitated by the increasing incidents of vandalism of transmission facilities, noting that the frequency of such acts is unprecedented in the history of transmission infrastructure vandalism.
According to TCN’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Mrs. Ndidi Mbah, Engr. Shuaibu emphasised that vandals often sell stolen transmission components for insignificant amounts, while their actions leave entire communities in darkness.
He stressed that prolonged power outages could have serious consequences, particularly for hospitals and other critical services that depend on a stable electricity supply. He further noted that vandalism hampers the development of Nigeria’s power sector, as funds intended for network expansion and new projects are diverted to replacing damaged infrastructure.
Engr. Shuaibu also warned that vandalism can be fatal, as perpetrators are often electrocuted while attempting to tamper with live installations.
Also speaking at the event, the representative of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State, DSE Adah Ngbede, warned that the consequences of vandalism are severe and that perpetrators would be apprehended and prosecuted. He stressed the importance of protecting TCN facilities, declaring: “No TCN, No Light.”
The District Head of Izom, Alhaji Ibrahim A. Salihu, who addressed the gathering in Hausa, appealed to members of the community to embrace TCN’s partnership initiative. He emphasised that transmission infrastructure belongs to the people and urged residents to take ownership of the facilities by remaining vigilant and collaborating with security agencies.
Similarly, the representative of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), ASP Galadima Edward, urged residents to promptly report any suspicious movement or activity around transmission towers and other power installations. He assured the community of the police’s readiness to respond swiftly to credible information and collaborate with other security agencies to prevent acts of vandalism.
The campaign aims to educate community members on the dangers and far-reaching consequences of vandalising electricity transmission infrastructure while encouraging greater community participation in safeguarding these critical national assets.
The sensitisation exercise will continue through stakeholder engagements, awareness sessions, and sustained advocacy aimed at securing community support for the protection of transmission infrastructure for the benefit of all.
The event attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Vigilante Corps, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Niger State Road Traffic Management Agency (NISTMA), traditional rulers, community leaders, and members of the media.
