FG seeks enhanced security for power installations

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has urged security agents to intensify efforts to protect Nigeria’s power assets, particularly from the growing threat of vandalism.

Speaking recently at the National Assembly, where he appeared to defend the ministry’s 2025 budget, Adelabu highlighted the critical need for comprehensive advocacy to combat the increasing acts of vandalism that have severely affected the country’s electricity infrastructure.

“One critical thing I want to draw your attention to is the issue of vandalisation as it concerns our assets,” the minister told the lawmakers.

He emphasised the interconnected nature of the power transmission system, stressing that damage to one component has widespread repercussions across the grid, warning that protecting these assets should be a shared responsibility, requiring the cooperation of security agencies at all levels.

Adelabu pointed out that the challenge extends beyond simple theft, with criminal elements, including bandits, employing sophisticated methods such as dynamite to destroy vital transmission towers and lines.

The minister specifically referenced the Shiroro-Mando-Kaduna transmission line, which was targeted by bandits, describing the attack as a wartime tactic.

He noted the considerable costs involved in repairing the damage, which had not been anticipated in the ministry’s budget.

“The collaboration of all security agencies, including the army, navy, air force, police, and civil defence, is essential. Most importantly, we need the full backing of the office of the National Security Adviser to address this severe security challenge,” he noted.

In addition to addressing security threats, the minister assured that the federal government remains committed to improving the power sector in 2025.

He reiterated the focus on the Presidential Power Initiative, which aims to stabilise the national grid and ensure quick restoration following any system failures.

“I want to assure you that on our part, the Federal Government is fully ready to address the issues hindering the electricity sector this year, 2025, and we hope the year will be a better one for us in the ministry. As I said before, I want to reiterate that we will focus on this Presidential Power Initiative to ensure that our grid is stable and does not suffer collapse, and when it does, within the very shortest time, it is restored and brought back on board,” he stated.

Adelabu also highlighted a strategic shift in the ministry’s procurement plans, noting a focus on collaborating with local contractors for the supply of materials such as cables and poles.

By encouraging local production, he said the government hopes to conserve foreign exchange, shorten procurement cycles, and reduce dependency on imports.

“I also want to let you know that we are encouraging our local contractors to provide our materials, such as cables, poles, and so on. This will help us to conserve our foreign exchange and reduce the transaction cycles we often face while we import. This will save us time in our procurement this year,” he said.