Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, has been thrust into darkness. Vandals struck the city’s power infrastructure, removing critical 132kV underground cables. As a result, over 60% of the city now lacks electricity.
The Attack: Timing and Impact
The incident occurred early Friday near Millennium Park. Consequently, key areas lost power, including parts of the Presidential Villa. Other affected districts are Maitama, Wuse, Jabi, Life Camp, Asokoro, Utako, and Mabushi.
The thieves made off with 40 meters of 1x500mm² XLPE conductors. These were taken from two 132kV transmission lines. This act has severely disrupted the city’s power distribution network.
Official Response and Immediate Actions
Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s General Manager of Public Affairs, issued a statement. She explained the role of the stolen cables in Abuja’s power supply chain. The TCN has since dispatched engineers to assess the damage and begin repairs.
However, no specific timeline for power restoration has been provided. This leaves residents and businesses in uncertainty. The impact extends beyond mere inconvenience. It affects government operations, businesses, and daily life in the capital.
Broader Context: A Pattern of Attacks
This isn’t an isolated incident. In fact, it’s part of a troubling trend. Last year, Nigeria experienced 12 national grid collapses. Additionally, 128 transmission towers were destroyed in 2024.
A similar attack occurred in December 2024. Then, vandals targeted the 330-kilovolt Shiroro-Katampe transmission line. These incidents highlight the ongoing vulnerability of Nigeria’s power infrastructure.
Government Response and Future Plans
The government is taking steps to address these challenges. For instance, the 2025 budget allocates ₦12,420,122,743 for insuring sensitive assets. This aims to mitigate losses and ensure quicker recovery from future incidents.
Moreover, the TCN has called for public vigilance. They urge citizens to report suspicious activities to security agencies. The goal is to protect transmission equipment and installations crucial to the nation’s power sector.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Solutions
Experts suggest a multi-faceted approach to protect Nigeria’s power infrastructure. This includes enhanced physical security, community engagement, and advanced surveillance technologies. Additionally, they recommend stricter penalties for vandalism.
As Abuja grapples with this crisis, it’s clear that long-term solutions are needed. The coming days will be crucial. Authorities must not only restore power but also implement measures to prevent future attacks.
In conclusion, this incident serves as a stark reminder of urban infrastructure’s fragility. It underscores the far-reaching consequences of such attacks. As repairs continue, residents and businesses must prepare for ongoing disruptions.
