The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, has implored the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, to ensure that the electricity towers are secured even as repairs are carried out, News About Nigeria reports.
He gave this charge in a statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, Henshaw Ogubike, on Tuesday in Abuja.
He noted that the directive is in conformity with President Bola Tinubu, who showed concern over the recent grid collapse due to third-party interference.
Recall that the grid collapse has resulted in widespread power outages across northern Nigeria, causing significant socioeconomic disruption.
The Minister directed the CDS to ensure adequate security for the repairs of affected electricity towers in the country.
He maintained that the directive to the CDS is imperative to prevent interference from non-state actors as workers repair the critical national infrastructure.
According to him, the goal is to prioritise the repairs and ensure the grid’s functionality for the benefit of all citizens.
Badaru also urged all Nigerians, particularly those in affected states, to remain patient and show understanding as efforts are underway to address the situation.
In a statement issued yesterday by his adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu directed the minister and relevant agencies to speed up the pace of work to restore electricity to all the affected states in the north.
Tinubu said he was saddened by the reports of vandalism and wilful destruction of power infrastructure and other public assets, which caused the blackout.
