The Honourable Minister of Works, Engineer Dave Umahi, has donated a speed boat to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Lagos State Command to strengthen the protection of the Third Mainland Bridge and other federal bridges across the state.
The donation, made in line with the resolutions of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) on safeguarding critical national infrastructure, marks a significant boost to the Corps’ marine operations.
At a ceremony held on Thursday, November 20, 2025, the Lagos State Commandant of NSCDC, Mr Keshinro Adedotun, commissioned the speed boat and inaugurated the newly established Marine and Infrastructure Protection Unit.
The unit is tasked with combating illegal dredging, excavation, encroachment, and other threats to bridge integrity.
Commandant Adedotun expressed gratitude to Minister Umahi for his support, describing the donation as a morale booster for NSCDC personnel who have been working tirelessly to dislodge criminal activities under Lagos bridges.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the former Federal Controller of Works, Lagos, Engr. (Mrs.) O.I. Kesha, for ensuring the Corps received necessary logistical support.
Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Oloyede Emmanuel Ige was appointed Commander of the Marine and Infrastructure Protection Unit. In his remarks, Ige pledged to intensify monitoring and patrols along marine corridors to safeguard critical infrastructure. He extended appreciation to the Minister of Works, the Commandant General of NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, and the Lagos State Commandant for entrusting him with the responsibility.
The new unit is expected to enhance security measures against vandalism and illegal dredging, which pose serious risks to bridge stability and the economy. The speedboat will enable NSCDC operatives to patrol waterways more effectively, curbing unauthorised dredging and excavation activities that could compromise national infrastructure.
Addressing journalists at the event, Commandant Adedotun issued stern warnings to individuals engaged in illegal dredging and encroachment. He urged licensed dredgers to comply with regulations, stressing that violators would face the full weight of the law.
The initiative underscores the federal government’s commitment to protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring the safety of citizens who rely on these bridges daily.
