The Nigerian Senate has called on the Federal Government to establish a special intervention fund specifically for the maintenance of transmission lines across the country. This call to action follows recent acts of vandalism along the Jos-Gombe 330KV transmission line, which have significantly disrupted power supply to seven states in the North-East zone.
This resolution emerged from a motion sponsored by Senator Manu Haruna, who represents Taraba Central. The motion highlighted the urgent need to address the frequent vandalization of transmission lines managed by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) in this region. Senator Haruna’s motion emphasized the critical impact of these disruptions on the affected states, emphasizing the necessity of immediate government intervention to restore stable power supply.
During the Senate session, Senator Shuaibu Lau provided a compelling argument regarding the state of the Mambilla hydroelectric project. He described the project as effectively non-existent and characterized the processes surrounding it as dubious. Senator Lau suggested the formation of a special Senate committee to thoroughly investigate the procurement practices and expenditure related to the Mambilla project. This investigation aims to uncover any irregularities and ensure transparency and accountability in future projects.
The Senate collectively urged the Federal Government to urgently allocate funds to the TCN to repair the faults along the Jos-Gombe 330KV transmission line. This funding is essential to restoring power supply to the affected areas and alleviating the hardship faced by residents due to the power outages. The lawmakers emphasized the importance of a swift response to mitigate the ongoing suffering caused by these disruptions.
In addition to financial allocations, the Senate recommended that the Ministry of Power work closely with security agencies and local vigilante groups in the host communities where TCN transmission lines are located. This collaboration is intended to deter and prevent further acts of vandalism, ensuring the protection and sustained operation of critical infrastructure.
The Senate’s resolution reflects a broader recognition of the importance of reliable power supply for economic stability and quality of life in the affected regions. By advocating for a dedicated intervention fund and enhanced security measures, the Senate aims to address both the immediate and long-term challenges facing the country’s power transmission network.
As the Federal Government considers the Senate’s recommendations, the affected communities remain hopeful for a timely resolution to the power supply issues. The establishment of a special intervention fund and increased security measures could mark a significant step forward in strengthening Nigeria’s power infrastructure and ensuring more consistent electricity delivery to all regions.
This recent Senate session underscores the critical need for proactive measures to safeguard essential services and infrastructure. The call for transparency in the Mambilla hydro project also highlights the Senate’s commitment to accountability in the management of public resources. Moving forward, the collaborative efforts between government entities and local communities will be vital in achieving these goals and enhancing the overall resilience of Nigeria’s power sector.
