NSCDC, Stakeholders Meet in Kano to Protect Critical National Assets

The Kano State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has convened a stakeholders’ engagement aimed at strengthening the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure, particularly against damage to fibre optic cables caused by road construction and mining activities.

The meeting brought together key stakeholders from relevant sectors to deliberate on practical measures to safeguard vital infrastructure, especially communication facilities, which are often affected during construction works.

Speaking at the event, the Kano State Commandant of the NSCDC, Mohammed Agalama said the engagement was organised to provide a platform for stakeholders to rub minds and develop effective strategies for protecting critical national assets.

He explained that the forum would play a crucial role in sensitising contractors on the importance of preserving national infrastructure, while also fostering collaboration among stakeholders to prevent damage during project execution.

According to him, the meeting would help address recurring challenges such as the breaking of underground pipes and the cutting of fibre optic cables during construction activities.

The Commandant reiterated that the NSCDC has a statutory mandate to protect critical national assets and infrastructure, stressing that achieving this objective requires the collective efforts of all stakeholders involved.

In his remarks, the Zonal Controller of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Maigana Gidado, described the engagement as timely and necessary.

He emphasised the need for regular stakeholders’ meetings to sustain dialogue and enhance coordination among agencies and contractors in order to achieve the desired goals.

Other stakeholders who attended the event offered a range of suggestions and recommendations on how to effectively tackle the challenges, including improved communication, proper mapping of infrastructure, and stricter compliance with regulatory guidelines.