The Network of Advocacy for Positive Impact Initiative (NAPII) has cautioned against the spread of unverified allegations concerning the operations of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), warning that such claims could undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s electricity infrastructure.
Addressing journalists in Abuja on Monday, the Executive Secretary of the organization, Comrade William Smith Bassey, said the advocacy group convened the media briefing to promote balanced engagement and prevent misinformation in the power sector.
Bassey said while public scrutiny of government institutions remains important in a democratic system, allegations capable of affecting critical national infrastructure must be handled responsibly and through appropriate institutional channels.
According to him, Nigeria’s electricity transmission network plays a central role in the country’s power supply chain and therefore requires stability, public confidence, and constructive engagement from all stakeholders.
“The transmission system is the backbone of the nation’s electricity supply architecture. It connects power generation to distribution companies across the country. Any narrative that casts doubt on this vital institution must be examined carefully to ensure it does not distort public perception,” he said.
The group noted that recent reports circulating in the media about the operations of TCN appeared to contain sweeping claims that could create unnecessary anxiety within the power sector if not properly contextualized.
NAPII maintained that government agencies such as TCN operate under established administrative procedures and regulatory oversight that ensure transparency and accountability in their activities.
Bassey explained that issues relating to procurement processes, operational decisions, and management policies within public institutions are subject to review by the appropriate authorities, including supervising ministries and regulatory bodies.
“Where concerns exist, they should be presented through formal mechanisms that allow proper investigation and resolution. Public accusations without adequate verification risk creating tension and diverting attention from ongoing reforms in the power sector,” he said.
The organization also highlighted the operational challenges faced by transmission infrastructure across Nigeria, noting that transmission facilities are spread across vast geographical areas, including remote and difficult terrains that require continuous monitoring and technical intervention.
According to the group, maintaining and expanding the national grid requires consistent efforts by engineers and technical teams who work round the clock to ensure electricity transmission remains stable.
NAPII stressed that at a time when the country is making efforts to improve power supply, strengthen grid stability, and support economic development, stakeholders must act with a sense of national responsibility.
The advocacy group advised interested parties to utilize available institutional processes to obtain relevant information about TCN’s budgetary allocations and operational activities, particularly through records approved by the National Assembly and relevant oversight bodies.
“We believe that issues affecting institutions as strategic as the Transmission Company of Nigeria should be addressed through dialogue, responsible advocacy, and evidence-based discussions rather than exchanges that may generate confusion,” Bassey said.
He added that the organization has confidence in the current management of the Transmission Company of Nigeria and urged stakeholders to allow the institution to continue carrying out its mandate without undue distractions.
NAPII further emphasized that national institutions must be strengthened through constructive criticism and proper oversight mechanisms rather than weakened by narratives that may not fully reflect the realities within the sector.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible public discourse, transparency, and balanced engagement on matters affecting Nigeria’s development.
