Emmanuel OchayiVandals Destroy Key Shiroro-Kaduna Transmission Towers
Parts of Kano and Kaduna have been plunged into darkness after vandals destroyed two transmission towers along the Shiroro–Kaduna power lines. The 330kV transmission lines, a critical part of Nigeria’s electricity grid, were targeted by vandals, causing significant disruptions to the power supply in the North-West.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) confirmed the incident on Friday, identifying the towers damaged as T133 and T136. Both towers serve the crucial Shiroro–Kaduna transmission lines, which supply power to Kaduna and Kano. This destruction of infrastructure has left many areas without electricity, adding strain to an already struggling power supply network.
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TCN first became aware of the damage when one of the transmission lines unexpectedly tripped. Shortly after, the second line also tripped, raising concerns of a larger problem. Upon inspection, TCN engineers discovered extensive damage to the towers and transmission lines. According to Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s Spokesperson, the cables were found compromised at multiple points, confirming deliberate vandalism rather than routine wear and tear.
“This is a clear act of sabotage,” said Mbah. “We have mobilized security operatives and local vigilante groups to patrol the area and prevent further damage.”
The company has begun an investigation into the incident and is working closely with security operatives to safeguard the site, which is located in an area prone to banditry. Increased security measures have been put in place, and the site is now being monitored more closely to protect it from further attacks.
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Emergency Measures Deployed to Restore Power
In response to the emergency, TCN has activated a newly acquired emergency restoration system to stabilize the power supply. Engineers are working to implement temporary solutions that will keep electricity flowing to the affected regions.
“We are using the 330kV Kaduna–Jos transmission line as an interim solution to deliver power to the Kano and Kaduna regions,” explained Mbah. “This ensures that we maintain some level of electricity supply while we work on the full restoration of the damaged towers.”
TCN has also conducted an aerial survey of the damaged area to fully assess the extent of the vandalism. The survey, done in collaboration with security agencies, is part of a broader effort to identify vulnerabilities along the transmission route and prevent future incidents. Plans for reconstructing the damaged towers are underway, although TCN has not provided an estimated timeline for when the repairs will be completed.
Impact on Power Supply in the North-West
The Shiroro–Kaduna transmission lines are vital to the power infrastructure of Northern Nigeria. Each line has the capacity to carry 600MW of electricity to the region. The loss of these lines has created significant disruptions in power distribution, affecting homes, businesses, and industries across Kaduna and Kano.
“This kind of vandalism impacts everyone in the region, not just the electricity company,” said Sule Abdulaziz, TCN’s Managing Director. “We are urging communities living near transmission infrastructure to help protect these vital national assets. Keeping them secure is a collective responsibility.”
TCN has assured the public that they are working around the clock to restore normalcy. Engineers are already on-site, and security patrols have been increased in vulnerable areas to prevent further incidents. In the meantime, the Kaduna–Jos line will be used to ensure that power continues to flow into the affected areas, albeit at a reduced capacity.
Investigation Ongoing to Identify Perpetrators
Authorities are now investigating the incident to identify the vandals responsible for the attack. There are concerns that such acts of vandalism could further strain the already fragile electricity situation in the region. Power outages and disruptions have been a frequent problem in the North-West, and any further destruction of infrastructure could exacerbate the situation.
As investigations continue, the TCN has reiterated its commitment to securing Nigeria’s power infrastructure and ensuring that such attacks do not become commonplace. Community support and increased vigilance remain crucial in protecting vital energy assets.
“We cannot allow a few individuals to hold the entire region to ransom,” Mbah said. “We are determined to bring those responsible to justice and restore power to affected areas as soon as possible.”
Efforts to reconstruct the towers are ongoing, and TCN is confident that the situation will soon return to normal, with electricity restored to the affected areas.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
