Key Points
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FCT infrastructure protection tightened ahead of holidays.
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Vandals warned of zero tolerance enforcement.
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Patrols expanded across critical public facilities.
Nigeria’s civil defence agency has warned vandals to stay away from critical public assets in Abuja, stepping up security as Christmas and New Year celebrations drive higher population movement and public activity across the capital.
The Federal Capital Territory command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) said it has placed officers on heightened alert to safeguard power installations, water pipelines, telecommunications equipment and road infrastructure. Officials said the move is designed to prevent service disruptions during one of the city’s busiest periods of the year.
In a statement Tuesday, NSCDC spokesperson Monica Ojobi said the command is working around the clock to protect residents and critical national assets from criminal activity.
FCT infrastructure protection strengthened for Yuletide
The agency said FCT infrastructure protection has been reinforced through undercover operations and expanded patrols of known hotspots. Officers have been deployed to monitor dark spots and vulnerable areas where vandalism has increased in previous festive periods.
Commanders said the strategy focuses on preventing damage to electric cables, transformers, waterboard pipelines, telecommunications masts, manholes and crash barriers, which are often targeted by thieves looking to sell scrap materials.
FCT infrastructure protection backed by surveillance
Under the new plan, FCT infrastructure protection teams are operating on a 24-hour surveillance schedule, supported by intelligence-led patrols and rapid response units. The agency said the goal is to disrupt criminal networks before they can act.
Residents were urged to avoid late-night movements in isolated areas and to keep close communication with family members. Security officials advised the public to trust their instincts and report suspicious behavior immediately.
Residents urged to report suspicious activity
The NSCDC appealed to residents to assist security agencies by reporting anyone seen tampering with public assets. The agency set up two emergency hotlines, 09166229882 and 08159066244, so that people could get help quickly.
Command officials told people who wanted to commit a crime to think twice, move, or face arrest and prosecution. The NSCDC said it is still dedicated to keeping Abuja safe and making sure that public services run smoothly during the holidays.
