Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has condemned the recurring vandalism of critical power transmission lines in Abuja. This latest incident, which targeted the Transmission Company of Nigeria’s (TCN) supply lines, has left key areas, including Maitama and Garki, in darkness. Adelabu described the act as a severe setback to the nation’s energy sector, expressing frustration at how such actions undermine efforts to stabilize power transmission.
Speaking at the inauguration of a 100MVA power transformer at the Isolo substation in Lagos, the minister lamented the devastating impact of these attacks. “For four months, Bayelsa State was in darkness due to local vandalism. Now, the Central Area in Abuja is suffering the same fate,” he said. Adelabu urged government agencies, private sector partners, and local communities to collaborate in safeguarding the nation’s power infrastructure.
Despite these challenges, the minister commended TCN for its dedication to improving energy supply. He highlighted that the new transformer aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of fostering economic growth and job creation through improved energy solutions. Adelabu called for a collective effort to protect infrastructure vital to Nigeria’s progress, emphasizing that energy is the backbone of national development.