Gbenga Agun, commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Edo, has called for collective efforts in protecting critical national assets.

Mr Agun made the call while speaking at a meeting of stakeholders on the collaborative protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) on Tuesday in Benin.

He described the meeting as timely, underscoring the importance of collaboration and innovation in protecting national assets.

Mr Agun emphasised the imperative of safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure.

“Our nation’s progress and prosperity depend heavily on the uninterrupted operation of these vital systems, from power plants to transportation networks, communication systems to water treatment facilities,” the commandant stated.

The NSCDC boss noted that national assets were not without risks and threats, both internal and external, and stressed that it was the duty of the people to safeguard these assets, stay ahead of threats, and ensure the continuity of essential services.

He warned that cyber-attacks, terrorism, sabotage, and other malicious activities posed significant challenges to the security and resilience of our critical infrastructure.

Mr Agun, however, expressed confidence that collective efforts would yield significant benefits for Nigeria.

On his part, Sule Muhammad, head of the CNAI Department of the corps, stressed the need for regular and adequate surveillance of the nation’s critical infrastructure.

In his remarks, the chief security officer of Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), David Aghedo, described vandalism as the most common threat to the company’s operations.

Mr Aghedo said individuals who carried out acts of vandalism were educated and well-read, not the average person.

Also, Matthew Ariyibi, assistant general manager of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Benin Region, stated that the activities of scavengers pose threats to the company’s operations.

The meeting was also attended by other sister security agencies, community leaders, and other stakeholders.

(NAN)