TCN raises the alarm over planned attack on power facilities

Following Thursday’s national grid collapse, the Transmission Company of Nigeria has raised the alarm over a planned attack on its facilities in Zuba, Gwagwalada area of the Federal Capital Territory.

The TCN spokesperson, Ndidi Mbah, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.

Mbah said there were alerts of planned attacks on the power installations in Zuba, calling for heightened vigilance.

While reiterating the firm’s commitment to managing the national grid and ensuring its stability amid ongoing challenges such as the persistent low gas supply affecting power generation in the nation’s grid, he said TCN grid controllers work tirelessly day and night to balance the grid and prevent any kind of disturbance.

According to Mbah, the recent grid disturbance on March 28 was promptly managed by TCN operators, with power restoration achieved in some areas within 21 minutes.

“We acknowledge the collaborative efforts of the Federal Government, particularly the Minister of Power, who has been working hard to address the root causes of low gas supply. The Minister has held meetings with generating companies and gas companies to secure a higher volume of gas supply and consistency for enhanced power generation,” he noted.

However, he stated that as efforts to stabilise the gas supply progressed, consistent gas availability was important to sustaining optimal power generation, facilitating easier grid management, and reducing system disturbances.

“It is a fact that low power generation substantially increases grid fragility.

“Vandalism is a persistent challenge, as clearly seen in the first quarter of 2024 alone, in which five significant vandalism incidents disrupted transmission operations, necessitating emergency repairs and, in some cases, complete tower reconstruction and/or transmission line replacement due to acts of vandalism,” she added.

According to Mbah, TCN urges heightened vigilance, for now, particularly in the Zuba area, following alerts of a planned attack on TCN facilities in Zuba.

“We implore residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities around power facilities in the area to safeguard the integrity of our infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted power supply to all.

“Again, we urge everyone, especially those living close to TCN towers nationwide, to please join hands with TCN in safeguarding power transmission towers and cables,” he pleaded.