TCN Raises Alarm Over Surge in Attacks on Transmission Infrastructure

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN)

By Yinka Kolawole | June 20, 2025

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has raised serious concerns over the growing spate of vandalism targeting its transmission infrastructure, describing 2024 and 2025 as the most challenging years in recent memory.

Speaking at a workshop for energy correspondents in Keffi, Nasarawa State, the General Manager of Transmission Services, Mr. Ali Sharifa, revealed that a total of 86 transmission towers were vandalised in 2024, with 26 towers completely destroyed, plunging entire states into darkness.

So far in 2025, 42 separate vandalism incidents have been recorded, affecting 178 transmission towers nationwide, he said.

“The primary impact of this destruction is the disruption of electricity supply across the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), as generated power cannot be wheeled to the distribution networks,” Sharifa explained.

Beyond power outages, he noted that vandalism has imposed huge financial burdens on TCN, due to the high cost of replacing damaged infrastructure, conducting repairs, and implementing enhanced security measures.

“It also slows down grid expansion projects, as funds earmarked for development are diverted to emergency repairs and security. Contractors’ invoices are piling up because of unexpected repair expenses,” he added.

Natural Disasters Add to Woes

Sharifa also disclosed that natural disasters have further hampered TCN’s operations. In May 2025, six transmission towers (T306, T307, T308, T365, T366, and T367) along the Kainji–Birnin Kebbi 330kV Single Circuit (International) Line collapsed due to windstorms and torrential rain.

Similarly, Tower T137 on the Apir–Lafia–Jos 330kV Double Circuit Line partially collapsed in the same month under similar weather conditions.

Sabotage and Socio-Political Factors

Sharifa attributed the persistent attacks to a mix of sabotage, political motives, and economic hardship, emphasizing that TCN is taking steps to address the menace.

“We’re engaging with local communities in high-risk areas and have also sought support from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), following a series of attacks in 2024,” he said.

As part of the response, TCN is working with ONSA to deploy state-of-the-art surveillance and monitoring technologies on vulnerable transmission lines, starting with a pilot programme to deter and prevent future attacks.

Despite these challenges, TCN reiterated its commitment to stabilizing the grid and improving power transmission across the country.

Vanguard

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