The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN)has announced the restoration of bulk power supply through the Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV transmission line at 08:03 hours on November 30, 2024. This follows the successful reconstruction of collapsed towers and restringing of vandalized conductors by TCN contractors.
The company explained that it’s engineers, led by the Port Harcourt Region General Manager, Engr. Emmanuel Akpa conducted a final inspection of work done on November 28, 2024.
The team verified the integrity of the 20 newly erected towers (Nos. 48–64 and 97–99) that were destroyed in a series of vandalism incidents on July 29 and August 12, 2024 and having certified that all work met required standards, the line was cleared for energization.
The company is also putting in place measures to protect the newly installed equipment according to the company’s General Manager, Public Affairs, Mrs Ndidi Mbah.
“Discussions are underway with stakeholders in Bayelsa and Rivers States to implement a comprehensive community engagement program. This initiative seeks to educate local communities traversed by the transmission line on the consequences of vandalism and theft of power infrastructure.
“Additionally, the program will involve appointing community representatives to oversee the security of power equipment in their areas. This approach aims to foster a sense of local ownership and accountability for the infrastructure.
“These efforts are part of broader measures to prevent future incidents of large-scale vandalism, which left Bayelsa State in total blackout since July 29, 2024. The economic losses incurred by residents, as well as the significant financial burden on TCN to restore the towers, have been substantial.
“TCN appeals to the public to support the nationwide campaign against the vandalism of power infrastructure. Collective action is essential to safeguarding the country’s electricity assets for sustainable development.