Nigeria’s power sector is facing a serious challenge as the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) reports a sharp increase in vandalism of its transmission towers in the first half of 2025. According to TCN officials, 42 incidents of vandalism were recorded between January and June, affecting 178 transmission towers across the country.
The General Manager of Transmission Service at TCN, Ali Sharifa, revealed these figures during a recent workshop in Keffi. He described 2024 and 2025 as the most difficult years for the company, citing repeated attacks by non-state actors targeting critical power infrastructure.
“These acts of sabotage are driven by political and economic motives,” Sharifa said. The consequences have been severe: power supply disruptions, increased repair costs, and delays in expanding the national grid. In 2024 alone, 86 towers were vandalized, with 26 collapsing completely and plunging affected states into darkness.
Beyond vandalism, natural disasters have also taken a toll. In May, six towers along the Kainji-Birnin Kebbi line collapsed due to windstorms and heavy rain.
TCN is responding by working with local communities and the Office of the National Security Adviser to protect vulnerable lines. The company is also investing in new technology to monitor and deter attacks, and running public awareness campaigns to encourage Nigerians to see TCN property as a shared national asset.
Sharifa noted that these efforts have led to the arrest and prosecution of several vandals. However, he emphasized that community support and continued vigilance are essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s power infrastructure and ensuring stable electricity supply for all.
