By Chinedum Treasure
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has urged youths to protect critical national infrastructure, warning that vandalism and destruction of public assets could jeopardise their own future.
The State Commandant, Commandant Maku Olatunde, gave the warning while delivering a lecture at the maiden Amanuke Youth Summit in Amanuke, Awka North Local Government Area, themed, “Protection of Critical Assets and Infrastructure: The Role of the Youth in Homeland Security.”
Maku, represented by the Command’s image maker, Superintendent of Corps Okadigbo Edwin, described critical assets such as roads, electricity facilities, telecommunications infrastructure, pipelines, schools, hospitals, government buildings and security installations as the backbone of the nation.
He warned that theft, vandalism, fibre cuts, sabotage, illegal mining, encroachment on rights-of-way and deliberate destruction of government property posed serious threats to national security and economic development.
“Citizens must shun acts that compromise public infrastructure,” he said, urging residents to increase vigilance, share intelligence and support community-based surveillance.
The commandant encouraged youths to promptly report suspicious activities around critical infrastructure to the NSCDC through its emergency channels.
According to him, youths are major stakeholders in nation-building and must resist being used for political violence or other criminal activities.
“When you protect these facilities in your community, you are protecting your own future which is in your hands,” Maku said.
He assured that the NSCDC would continue to partner traditional rulers, youth organisations and community stakeholders to protect critical assets across Awka North and Anambra State.
The summit, attended by the traditional ruler of Amanuke, HRH Igwe Chijindu Ezebuilo; President General of Amanuke Ogbuodudu Development Union, Simon Orakwe; former Commissioner for Homeland Security, Chief Chikodili Anara; Dr Chidi Chidebe, youths, academics, women and other stakeholders, also featured discussions on youth empowerment, leadership, security and community development.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Patrick Agha Mba, represented by Tony Omatah, and other invited guests and community stakeholders.
Tags: NSCDC, Anambra, Amanuke, Youths, Critical Infrastructure
