Unprotected Power Supply

Power supply is a critical driver of economic and social development. In Nigeria, persistent power challenges disrupt progress, costing the country $26 billion annually. Businesses grappling with inconsistent electricity spend $22 billion yearly on off-grid fuel to maintain operations, significantly increasing costs. A major contributor to this crisis is the vandalisation of power infrastructure, which severely hampers Nigeria’s ability to provide consistent electricity.

The destruction of power infrastructure is escalating, worsening Nigeria’s fragile power supply. Between January and August 2024, vandals destroyed 63 transmission installations, including 17 towers, and stole critical components such as conductors, underground cables, and braces. These attacks, predominantly in northern Nigeria but also affecting southern and eastern regions, undermine progress in power generation and disrupt the transmission network.

The economic impact of vandalism is profound. From January 2022 to October 2024, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) spent ₦29.3 billion repairing 266 vandalised electric towers. Additionally, from January to November 2024, the federal government incurred ₦8.8 billion in repairs to damaged transmission infrastructure. Businesses bear the brunt of these disruptions, as seen during the week-long blackout caused by vandalism, which inflicted significant losses on enterprises in Bauchi, Jigawa, and Gombe States.

Vandalism exacerbates the high cost of electricity, placing an enormous financial burden on Nigerians already struggling with economic hardship. According to Nextier’s All On Off-Grid Energy Business Report, vandalism contributes to rising energy costs. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) predicts that household expenditures will continue to rise through January 2025, depleting savings and forcing many Nigerians to rely on borrowing to meet basic needs. The inflated cost of electricity due to infrastructure destruction further deepens the hardship for households. Vandalism not only disrupts power supply but also endangers lives and property. The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) reported at least 126 electricity-related accidents between January and September 2023, with vandalism responsible for 13 per cent of these incidents. These accidents resulted in 79 fatalities, 72 injuries, and the destruction of property, highlighting the severe human and economic toll of vandalism on power infrastructure.

The Nigerian government has responded to the persistent vandalisation of power infrastructure by enacting the Electricity Power Reform Act of 2023, which replaces the Electricity Reform Power Act of 2005. This new legislation imposes a three-year prison term, a fine, or both on individuals who damage electricity apparatus. Despite this measure, vandalism continues to threaten the stability of Nigeria’s power supply. A multi-pronged approach involving enforcement, community engagement, and technology is essential to eradicate this menace.

The government must strictly enforce the Electricity Power Reform Act of 2023. Effective enforcement requires ensuring offenders face stringent penalties to deter future violations. Periodic evaluations of the law’s implementation are crucial to identify gaps and make necessary adjustments. Strengthening the judiciary’s capacity to prosecute offenders swiftly and effectively will also enhance the act’s deterrent effect.

Engaging local communities is critical in reducing the vandalisation of power infrastructure. Community-oriented projects, education campaigns, and outreach initiatives in areas prone to vandalism can foster a sense of social responsibility. Educating residents about the economic and social consequences of vandalism, such as power outages and financial burdens, can discourage these activities. Building trust through transparency and accountability will encourage communities to support safeguarding efforts. The creation of local vigilante groups, supported and trained by the government, can provide additional security for power infrastructure. These groups can act as a first line of defence while promoting community ownership of the fight against vandalism.

Deploying advanced technology can significantly bolster the protection of power infrastructure. Installing surveillance systems, such as high-resolution cameras and aerial monitoring using satellite imagery, can provide real-time oversight of critical installations. Vibrator sensors, which detect unusual frequencies associated with tampering, can alert authorities to vandalism attempts before significant damage occurs. These technological solutions can act as both preventive and responsive measures.

To ensure long-term success, the government must adopt an integrated approach, combining legislative enforcement, community involvement, and technological advancements. Collaboration with stakeholders, including private sector actors and local authorities, will be essential in pooling resources and expertise. By implementing these measures, Nigeria can significantly reduce and eventually eliminate the vandalisation of power infrastructure, fostering a more stable and efficient power supply for its citizens.