The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has raised the alarm over rampant encroachment and vandalism of its critical power infrastructure in Kaduna state, warning that such acts are jeopardising efforts to achieve a stable and uninterrupted electricity supply nationwide.

Speaking during a high-level sensitisation forum with traditional rulers, security agencies, youth leaders and other key stakeholders in Kaduna, TCN officials decried the growing trend of illegal structures springing up directly under high-voltage transmission lines.

The company also lamented repeated attacks on transmission facilities by vandals, describing them as major setbacks to its ongoing power expansion projects across the state.

General Manager, Kaduna Region, Engineer Nasir Mansur-Fada, in his address, disclosed that TCN is currently installing new transformers and upgrading transmission infrastructure to boost electricity delivery.

He, however, noted that persistent vandalism and unlawful construction activities continue to undermine these efforts.

During technical sessions, Manager System Lines, Mr. Simon Innocent, and Assistant Manager Electrical, Mr. Yakubu Abdulrazaq, explained how illegal structures hinder routine inspections, elevate risks of electrocution and could trigger devastating fires.

Also speaking, Senior Manager Health, Safety and Environment, Mr. Kenneth John, warned residents against turning transmission corridors into homes or markets.

Responding on behalf of traditional rulers, Sarkin Mando, Alhaji Sani Musa, applauded TCN for the initiative, pledging to rally grassroots support. “This is timely. We will go back and educate our people. When these lines are tampered with, it’s our communities that suffer prolonged blackouts,” he said.