NSCDC Engages Scrap Dealers and Stakeholders on Protection of National Assets in Lagos
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, has issued a strong call to the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria (NASWDEN) and other key stakeholders to actively participate in safeguarding critical national assets within the state. This directive was emphasized during an expanded community engagement focused on Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Protection (CNAI-P), which brought together representatives from Apapa, Mile 2, Ajeromi, and Aguda areas of Lagos.
Commandant's Warning on Vandalism
State Commandant Mr. Adedotun Keshinro, represented by the command's Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Corps Oluwaseun Abolurin, stressed the urgency of this initiative. He described the timing as optimal for such collaborative efforts and issued a stern warning to the public. Keshinro urged individuals to refrain from acts of vandalism, which he stated could severely compromise the integrity of the state's infrastructure and economic stability. He emphasized that offenders would face full legal consequences, reinforcing the corps's commitment to enforcing regulations.
Stakeholder Support and Commitments
The engagement saw robust support from various stakeholders. The Executive Chairman of Apapa Local Council, Adejumoke Senbajo, represented by Council Manager Mrs. Adebanji Oluwatoyino, praised the NSCDC's coordinated efforts to maintain infrastructure integrity. She highlighted that continuous, organized actions are essential to protect assets such as:
- Roads and telecommunications cables
- Manholes and electrical cables
- Power installations and rail tracks
- Fibre optic cables and other utilities
Similarly, the Executive Chairman of Ifelodun Local Council, Mayor Okeowo, represented by his Chief Security Officer, pledged to provide operational vehicles to enhance the performance of security agencies in the council. He called for ongoing public support to help the NSCDC fulfill its mandate effectively.
Collaborative Efforts with Security Agencies
The Nigerian Navy, represented by Lt-Commander AJ Omosola from NNS Beecroft, pledged its support for a collective and coordinated approach to policing critical national assets. He urged the NSCDC to maintain enhanced synergy, intelligence gathering, and surveillance efforts. Additionally, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) commended the corps for its grassroots sensitization campaigns and requested assistance in minimizing asset vandalism.
Commitments from Scrap Dealers and Area Command
The Chairman of the Scrap Dealers Association of Apapa, through a spokesperson, assured that measures are being implemented to ensure compliance with existing laws governing their operations. Meanwhile, Commander of Area E, Assistant Commandant of Corps Adamu Nana, along with divisional officers, reaffirmed their determination to combat vandalism aggressively and prosecute offenders within their Areas of Responsibility.
This expanded engagement underscores a unified approach to protecting Nigeria's vital infrastructure, leveraging community involvement and inter-agency cooperation to deter criminal activities and promote national security.
