Lagos: The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, has received a 150-horsepower engine speedboat to enhance its efforts to curb the activities of illegal dredgers in the state. The State Commandant, Mr. Adedotun Keshinro, announced that the Ministry of Works donated the boat to support the command's initiatives to tackle illegal dredging across the state's waterways.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Keshinro emphasized the importance of the vessel in strengthening maritime security and bolstering environmental protection. During the inauguration of the boat, it was handed over to the Marine and Infrastructure unit, with a focus on monitoring illegal dredgers around key locations such as the third mainland, Carter, Eko, and other bridges in the state.

Keshinro highlighted that the NSCDC had been engaging with stakeholders involved with these bridges to collaborate on stopping illegal dredging activities. He mentioned that similar efforts were being undertaken by the office of the national security adviser, which regularly updates stakeholders on the campaign to stop illegal dredgers. The consensus reached was that activities should not occur within a one-kilometer radius of these key areas.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Lagos NSCDC Marine and Infrastructure Protection Unit will be led by Mr. Emmanuel Oloyede. Keshinro clarified that not all dredgers were illegal, as some were licensed by the relevant regulatory agencies. However, the NSCDC aimed to ensure that operators did not work outside their approved boundaries.

Keshinro also mentioned that the NSCDC employed Mining Marshals within its mining department to monitor dredging activities and identify both legal and illegal operators. Those found operating unlawfully would face arrest and prosecution.

Mr. Peter Mkenchor, Chairman of the Ijora GRA Estate, praised the Federal Government for the donation, describing it as a positive development. He noted that the area had previously faced threats from sea pirates, but no incidents had occurred in the past five years due to the presence of NSCDC officials. He urged for attention to be given to establishing a proper jetty, highlighting that speedboats should not rely on private facilities.