The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) have agreed to strengthen collaboration to tackle the growing problem of vandalism affecting power infrastructure across the country.
The move is aimed at improving the protection of critical electricity facilities and ensuring more stable power supply for Nigerians.
The development was disclosed by NERC Chairman, Musiliu Oseni, during a meeting with a delegation from ONSA. The visit focused on improving cooperation between both agencies in securing assets within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).
Speaking during the meeting, Oseni stressed the importance of ONSA’s role in protecting national infrastructure, especially facilities linked to electricity generation, transmission, and distribution. He noted that increasing cases of vandalism have continued to affect the country’s power sector, leading to disruptions in electricity supply and additional financial pressure on operators and consumers.
According to him, stronger coordination between NERC and ONSA is necessary to reduce attacks on power installations and improve the reliability of electricity services across Nigeria.
The delegation from ONSA was led by Enebong Effiom. He also emphasised the need for closer cooperation between security agencies and power sector regulators to address threats facing electricity infrastructure.
Effiom explained that attacks on power facilities not only damage equipment but also weaken electricity supply nationwide. He added that such incidents increase operational costs and create major setbacks for efforts to improve power delivery to homes and businesses.
During the meeting, both agencies discussed several measures aimed at improving the security of power infrastructure.
One of the major decisions reached was the establishment of a joint stakeholders’ forum dedicated to combating vandalism in the power sector. The forum is expected to bring together relevant government agencies, security organisations, and industry players to coordinate efforts against attacks on electricity assets.
The agencies also agreed to create a shared database containing details of power assets, vandalism incidents, and reports of infractions. This database will help authorities track security threats, identify high-risk areas, and improve response strategies.
In addition, plans were made to introduce a reporting platform that would allow quick reporting of vandalism incidents. The platform is expected to support faster response from security agencies, improve arrests of suspects, and strengthen prosecution of offenders.
Participants at the meeting agreed that protecting critical power infrastructure is essential to improving electricity supply and supporting economic growth. They noted that vandalism remains one of the biggest challenges facing the Nigerian power sector, often causing blackouts, equipment damage, and huge repair costs.
Both NERC and ONSA expressed commitment to implementing the agreed measures and working with stakeholders across government and the energy industry to ensure better protection of electricity infrastructure.
The agencies believe that improved security around power assets will help reduce disruptions, strengthen public confidence in the sector, and ultimately deliver more reliable electricity to Nigerians.
