The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State Command, has issued a warning to construction companies, contractors, and property developers across the state over the destruction of fibre-optic cables and other critical national infrastructure.
The agency cautioned that excavation activities carried out without proper coordination could disrupt essential services and attract legal consequences.
The Facts
- NSCDC Kwara warned contractors and developers across the state.
- The warning concerns damage to fibre-optic cables and critical national infrastructure.
- The advisory targets construction firms, property developers, and excavation handlers.
- The agency emphasised the need to prevent service disruption and infrastructure damage.
NSCDC Raises Concern Over Infrastructure Damage
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State Command, has warned stakeholders in the construction sector to exercise caution during excavation and development projects.
The command specifically cautioned construction companies, contractors, property developers, and excavation handlers to avoid actions that could result in the destruction of fibre-optic cables and other critical national infrastructure.
Fibre-optic cables form the backbone of telecommunications and internet connectivity across many parts of the country. Damage to such infrastructure can disrupt communication networks, banking services, government operations, and other essential services.
Why Fibre Infrastructure Matters in Kwara
In Kwara State, ongoing urban development projects—particularly in Ilorin and surrounding areas—have led to increased excavation activities. While infrastructure expansion is necessary for growth, authorities have repeatedly stressed the importance of coordinating with relevant utility providers before digging.
Uncoordinated excavation can result in service outages affecting businesses, residents, and public institutions. Telecommunications disruptions, even for short periods, may have economic implications for small businesses and financial institutions.
Legal and Security Implications
Critical national infrastructure, including fibre-optic cables, is protected under federal laws. Damage—whether accidental or deliberate—can attract investigation and prosecution.
Although no specific incident details were disclosed in the advisory, the warning underscores ongoing enforcement efforts aimed at safeguarding strategic infrastructure across the state.
The NSCDC, as part of its mandate, is responsible for protecting critical assets and infrastructure. The agency has previously reiterated that contractors must obtain proper clearance and ensure technical supervision before excavation work begins.
Call for Compliance
The warning serves as a reminder to construction stakeholders to collaborate with utility companies and regulatory bodies before undertaking excavation.
Authorities have advised contractors to:
- Verify the location of underground utilities before digging
- Obtain necessary approvals
- Engage relevant technical agencies
- Adhere strictly to safety and compliance standards
The command emphasised that preventing infrastructure damage protects not only public services but also the reputation and operational continuity of construction firms.
What Happens Next
Contractors operating within Kwara are expected to strengthen compliance measures and ensure proper coordination with utility providers.
Further enforcement action may follow in cases where infrastructure damage occurs due to negligence or non-compliance.
Reactions from construction industry stakeholders were still emerging at the time of writing.
Sources
Source: Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State Command
