NSCDC warns against destruction of fibre optic cable during construction work

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, has warned against the destruction of fibre optic cables and other critical national assets during construction works in the state.

The warning came during a stakeholders’ community engagement organised by the NSCDC in Surulere, Mushin, Iganmu, Itire-Ikate and Yaba areas, under the Area C Command.

The advocacy engagements followed directives by the Commandant General of the corps, Ahmed Abubakar Audi.

The Commandant of the corps in Lagos State, Mr Adedotun Keshinro, commended the divisions for sensitising communities on protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI).

Keshinro, was represented by the Head of CNAI Department, Deputy Commandant of Corps, Mr Kolawole Agbetiloye.

“The protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure remains one of the core statutory mandates of the NSCDC.

“It covers vital sectors such as oil and gas, transportation, power and energy, telecommunications, education and health.

“This mandate requires the collaboration of communities and stakeholders to ensure these national assets are protected from vandalism and destruction” the commandant said.

Keshinro said that the community advocacy was aimed at bringing it sensitisation campaigns closer to the grassroots on the need for the populace to protect CNAI against vandalism and illegal activities.

“These engagements are meant to sensitise traditional leaders, market leaders, youths, unions and residents on protecting national assets.

“They also address issues such as illegal dredging, illegal mining and unlawful scrap dealings that threaten national infrastructure.

“Our goal is to bring awareness and security advocacy directly to the communities where these assets are located” he said.

Keshinro warned contractors and construction workers to avoid damaging fibre optic cables during projects.

“Fibre optic cables are usually laid underground by telecommunication engineers to strengthen network services for citizens.

“Construction companies must collaborate with the NSCDC and the Nigerian Communications Commission while carrying out projects.

“This collaboration will ensure fibre optic cables and other critical infrastructure are not accidentally destroyed during construction activities,” he said.

The commandant urged residents to report suspected vandalism to nearby NSCDC offices or emergency numbers.

The Chairman of Surulere Local Government Area, Mr Sulaiman Yusuf, commended the corps for promoting community-based security awareness.

Yusuf said the initiative provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss security issues affecting the area.

“I commend the NSCDC for creating a platform where communities can openly discuss security challenges.

“This initiative will strengthen collaboration between residents and security agencies.

“We will continue to support the corps with the necessary tools and facilities to improve their operations” he said.

The Baale of Abule-Ijesha also pledged support for the corps’ efforts to protect national assets.

He urged divisional officers under Area C Command to maintain regular engagement with traditional institutions.

Stakeholders at the meeting resolved to collectively protect manholes, fibre optic cables, rail sleepers, power installations and other critical infrastructure in their communities.

The representative of the National Orientation Agency, Mr Uzi Ihonde, also pledged support for continued public sensitisation.

He said joint campaigns would help reduce vandalism and protect national infrastructure across communities.