The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of critical infrastructure, including the 3rd Mainland, Carter, and Eko Bridges, while intensifying efforts to curb illegal mining and dredging activities across the state.

This resolution was reinforced during the second stakeholders’ engagement meeting held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the Federal Secretariat, TBS, Obalende, Lagos. The meeting brought together a broader range of participants from key government agencies and institutions.

In attendance were representatives from the Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Federal Ministry of Works, Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Office of the Surveyor-General Liaison Office, Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), among others.

In her remarks, the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, commended the NSCDC for spearheading the ongoing engagements, emphasizing that the initiative aligns with Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES agenda, which prioritizes sustainable development and improved liveability for residents.

She called on all stakeholders to work collaboratively to safeguard the structural integrity of the bridges, stressing that the state government remains committed to ensuring a safe and resilient environment for Lagosians.

Speaking at the meeting, the Lagos State Commandant of the NSCDC, Mr. Keshinro Adedotun, stated that the Corps’ efforts were in line with the directive of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). He explained that the engagement aims to enhance coordination among agencies in addressing threats posed by illegal mining and dredging.

Commandant Adedotun further proposed the immediate formation of a joint inspection committee comprising representatives from all relevant bodies. He also emphasized the importance of involving local communities in monitoring and reporting unlawful activities around the dredging sites.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous agreement to establish a working committee to commence on-the-spot assessments of identified dredging locations and to begin full-scale enforcement operations immediately after the session.