TCN, NSCDC Move to Curb Vandalism of Power Infrastructure in Edo
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TCN, NSCDC Move to Curb Vandalism of Power Infrastructure in Edo
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, has strengthened collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, and other stakeholders to protect electricity transmission and fibre optic infrastructure from vandalism and accidental damage in Edo State.
The resolution was reached during a stakeholders’ engagement meeting convened by the Edo State Command of the NSCDC, bringing together representatives of the power, telecommunications and construction sectors to tackle persistent threats to critical national infrastructure.
Speaking at the meeting, the Principal Manager, Telecommunications, TCN, Engr. Onya W. Chukwuma, described Benin as a strategic electricity transmission hub that connects several parts of the country.
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He explained that TCN’s transmission towers carry both electricity transmission lines and fibre optic telecommunications infrastructure, warning that vandalism of the facilities could disrupt power supply and telecommunications services while posing serious risks to lives and property.
Chukwuma commended the NSCDC for its efforts in safeguarding TCN’s installations and called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, telecommunications operators, construction firms and other stakeholders to protect critical national assets.
Earlier, the Edo State Commandant of the NSCDC, Akintayo Saidi Ayinla, reiterated the corps’ commitment to protecting critical infrastructure across the state.
He expressed concern over the increasing incidents of fibre optic cable cuts caused by excavation activities, revealing that 25 suspects had been arrested in connection with related offences.
To improve coordination, stakeholders agreed to establish a WhatsApp platform to facilitate information sharing and ensure prompt response to incidents affecting critical infrastructure.
Representatives of TCN, MTN, Airtel, Globacom, T2 Mobile, Benin Electricity Distribution Company, the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria, construction firms, the Fiber Optic Cable Maintenance Engineers Association, as well as relevant federal and Edo State government agencies attended the meeting.
