The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has urged the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other stakeholders in Edo State to strengthen efforts to protect its critical infrastructure in Benin, describing the city as a key electricity transmission hub.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Edo State Command of the NSCDC, Principal Manager of Telecommunications, Engr. Onya Chukwuma, stressed the need for sustained collaboration to curb vandalism, illegal excavation and accidental damage to transmission facilities.
Chukwuma explained that TCN’s transmission towers support both electricity transmission and fibre optic telecommunications, making them vital national assets that require constant protection.
He warned that attacks on transmission infrastructure could disrupt electricity supply and telecommunications services while also posing serious risks to lives and property.
The TCN official commended the NSCDC for its continued efforts in safeguarding transmission facilities and called for closer cooperation among security agencies, telecommunications operators and construction firms.
Edo State NSCDC Commandant, Akintayo Saidi Ayinla, reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to protecting critical national infrastructure across the state.
Ayinla disclosed that fibre optic cable cuts caused by excavation activities remain a major concern and revealed that 25 suspects had been arrested in connection with offences involving damage to critical infrastructure.
