Blackouts: FG allocates N8 billion for anti-vandalism campaign, says Adelabu

DDM News

The Federal Government through Adelabu has announced a budget allocation of N8 billion for nationwide campaigns and advocacy against the persistent vandalism of power infrastructure.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that this disclosure was made by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, on Thursday, January 23, 2025.

Addressing concerns surrounding the ministry’s 2025 budget, Adelabu reassured Nigerians of his commitment to delivering stable electricity supply and tackling vandalism, a menace that affects every household and organization in the country.

He emphasized that the Ministry of Power remains focused on enhancing electricity transmission and distribution across Nigeria.

Adelabu clarified that the N8 billion budgeted in the ministry’s 2025 allocation is intended for advocacy efforts, public education, and the deployment of technology to protect power installations.

Contrary to speculations, the funds are not allocated to campaigns urging citizens to pay their electricity bills.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Bolani Tunji, Adelabu detailed how the budget would be spent.

He stated that the funds will support a comprehensive campaign covering all 774 local government areas in the country.

According to Adelabu, the advocacy will involve town hall meetings, community leader engagements, and the use of various media platforms, including radio, television, newspapers, social media, and billboards.

“The objective is to educate Nigerians on the consequences of vandalism and to encourage them to view power infrastructure as critical community assets,” Adelabu explained.

He reiterated that safeguarding power installations is crucial to achieving a stable electricity supply for every Nigerian.

The minister also highlighted that the funds will be used to incorporate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects in communities hosting power infrastructure.

These projects are expected to foster goodwill and strengthen the relationship between the government and host communities.

Additionally, Adelabu disclosed plans to engage local hunters and security personnel to protect critical infrastructure in high-risk areas.

These measures, he explained, aim to create a sense of ownership among residents and deter acts of vandalism that have hampered the country’s power sector.

Adelabu emphasized that his team is dedicated to addressing the challenges facing the power sector and delivering sustainable solutions.

He noted that vandalism remains a significant obstacle, disrupting efforts to improve electricity generation, transmission, and distribution.

“Protecting power infrastructure is not just a government responsibility. It requires the collaboration of all stakeholders, including local communities and security agencies. Our strategy is to involve everyone in the fight against this menace,” Adelabu stated.

The minister further expressed confidence that the advocacy campaign will bring about a change in attitude toward public infrastructure.

He urged Nigerians to support the ministry’s initiatives by reporting suspicious activities around power installations and promoting awareness within their communities.

In conclusion, Adelabu reassured the public that the Federal Government remains committed to achieving a stable power supply.

He urged citizens to view the allocated N8 billion as an investment in the country’s future, as it seeks to protect critical infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted electricity supply nationwide.

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