The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, on Tuesday sought stronger collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force to improve power infrastructure protection and address the growing threat of vandalism targeting critical electricity assets across the country.

Tegbe made the request during a courtesy visit to the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, where he called for enhanced security measures around power installations.

Also read: AICL expands youth enterprise drive, awards N9.75m to innovative startups across three sectors

The minister, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary and other officials from the Ministry of Power, said protecting electricity infrastructure was essential to sustaining ongoing reforms and improving reliability within the sector.

He commended the Nigeria Police Force for its efforts under the leadership of IGP Disu, while identifying the destruction and theft of power facilities as major obstacles to achieving a stable electricity supply.

Tegbe urged closer cooperation between the ministry and security agencies, including increased surveillance of critical infrastructure and stronger enforcement against individuals involved in power-related crimes.

Responding, IGP Disu welcomed the engagement and reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to protecting national assets, including electricity infrastructure.

The police chief said the force would continue to support energy security efforts through improved security operations and the prosecution of vandals and other offenders affecting the power sector.

Disu also expressed readiness to work with the Ministry of Power to establish a joint task force dedicated to safeguarding power facilities and protecting personnel working across the sector.

The proposed collaboration forms part of broader government efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s electricity supply chain and reduce disruptions caused by attacks on critical infrastructure.

Also read: AICL expands youth enterprise drive, awards N9.75m to innovative startups across three sectors

The Ministry of Power said the partnership aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises improved energy access, sector reforms and stronger institutional cooperation.