The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has said that more than 276 of its transmission towers were vandalised between 2022 and 2025 across the country.
The General Manager of TCN, Adeshina Adeonipekun, disclosed this at a sensitisation programme organised by the Lagos Region of the company in Itori, Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State.
He said the programme was aimed at educating the public on the dangers of vandalising transmission infrastructure, building under power lines, and excavating around tower rights-of-way.
According to him, while the company recorded about 276 cases of vandalism within the three-year period, the number has reduced significantly to about 40 this year due to increased community engagement and staff vigilance.
Adeonipekun said sensitisation campaigns remain a key strategy in curbing the destruction of critical power infrastructure and strengthening collaboration with host communities.
He added that TCN has also deployed community-based vigilante groups across zones, who are being paid monthly to help safeguard transmission lines.
Speaking at the event, TCN Principal Manager (Lines), Engineer Kuye Emmanuel, said the company also provides incentives to farmers as part of efforts to encourage community participation in protecting infrastructure.
The Olu of Itori, Oba Abdulfatai Akorede Akamo, commended the initiative and urged TCN to make the awareness campaign a yearly exercise, noting that community cooperation has helped reduce vandalism in the area.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Nigeria Police Force also called on residents to report vandals and support security agencies in protecting public infrastructure.
