The Federal Government has confirmed spending N8.8 billion in 2024 to repair and restore transmission towers that were vandalized across various regions of Nigeria. This was revealed by Ahmed Abdulaziz, Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), during the Quarterly Power Sector Working Group meeting in Abuja.

Abdulaziz, represented by Engr. Olugbenga Ajiboye, TCN’s Executive Director, noted that 128 transmission towers had been destroyed by vandals or bandits from January to November 2024. Despite the significant financial investment in repairs, he lamented the frequent release of apprehended vandals on bail by the police, who often charge them with theft rather than vandalism.

“It is so sad that each time the vandals were caught and taken to the police for prosecution, police would arrest them for theft instead of vandalism, and they would be bailed,” Abdulaziz said. He also highlighted the challenges faced by contractors in restoring the towers, citing threats and limited access due to security concerns. He questioned how the country could ensure reliable electricity supply under such conditions.