For over a week, Northern Nigeria has been dealing with a major power outage due to the vandalism of the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line, a critical route supplying electricity to major cities like Kaduna and Kano. To tackle this, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has joined forces with the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), prioritizing efforts to restore power in the affected areas.

According to Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s General Manager of Public Affairs, the vandalism that occurred last Monday has caused severe disruptions. Mbah emphasized that TCN is committed to restoring power despite challenges, working to repair the line while managing security risks in the area.

TCN’s Engr. Nafisatu Ali explained that insurgents targeted the Shiroro-Kaduna line, which is essential for power distribution. To ensure the safety of TCN’s engineers, the NSA is now involved in securing the area so that repair work can proceed without further issues. While waiting for repairs, TCN tried rerouting power through another line, the Ugwuaji-Apir 330kV line, but it too recently developed a fault, adding to the difficulties.

In response to growing frustration, the National Council for Civil Society Organisations (NACSSO) has spoken out against calls for the removal of TCN’s Managing Director, Engr. Sule Abdulaziz. NACSSO’s President, Comrade Johnny Emmanuel, defended Abdulaziz, calling the dismissal calls “unpatriotic” and praising the MD’s dedication to stabilizing the power grid. Emmanuel urged citizens to remain patient as TCN, alongside security forces, works to bring electricity back to the North, highlighting that Abdulaziz has made significant efforts to resolve security concerns affecting infrastructure.

As TCN and NSA work together to secure and repair the damaged line, patience and understanding from the public will be crucial.