The Federal Government has directed the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to assume responsibility for the protection of the nation’s transmission lines and towers.
This directive was issued by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunjo-Ojo, during the passing-out parade of the second batch of NSCDC mining marshals in Abuja on Friday.
Dr. Tunjo-Ojo praised the NSCDC for their effective protection of mining sites across the country and instructed them to now focus on safeguarding power infrastructure.
Nigeria has experienced at least six significant instances of vandalism targeting power infrastructure and assets since December of the previous year.
The Minister emphasized the importance of sector-specific protection, stating, “We will take it sector by sector. We will protect the power sector. We will secure the energy sector. I challenge you to rise and protect the critical national assets of Nigeria.”
He highlighted the need to address the ongoing vandalism and economic sabotage affecting transmission lines, urging the NSCDC to ensure that no critical government assets are destroyed. “I believe that all you need is leadership, and I will provide that leadership,” he added.
Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, also spoke at the event, noting that the introduction of NSCDC Mining Marshals has led to increased revenue in the mineral sector.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Mary Adah Ogbe, Alake warned miners to formalize their operations or face legal consequences.
NSCDC Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, remarked on the threats to the mining sector posed by illegal miners, bandits, kidnappers, and terrorists.
He described these threats as significant setbacks to the development of Nigeria’s potentially lucrative mining industry.
“Given this backdrop, the need to implement robust security measures to strengthen security and safeguard our collective assets cannot be overemphasized,” Audi said.
The event saw 350 personnel graduating as the second batch of Mining Marshals, marking a significant step in enhancing the security of the country’s mining and power sectors.
