The Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, has donated a speedboat to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Command, in support of its efforts to protect critical national infrastructure, including the Third Mainland Bridge and other federal bridges across the state.

In line with the directive of the Commandant General of NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, the Lagos State Command on Thursday, 20 November 2025, commenced the implementation of resolutions reached with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). These resolutions emphasize strengthened collaboration with stakeholders such as the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and the Federal Ministry of Works to curb illegal activities that threaten federal infrastructure.

The Lagos State Commandant, Mr. Keshinro Adedotun, expressed deep appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Works for his continuous support, noting that the speedboat donation significantly boosts the morale of officers working tirelessly to combat unlawful activities—particularly underneath bridges where illegal dredging and encroachment are prevalent.

During the event, the Commandant officially commissioned the new speedboat donated by the Federal Ministry of Works and inaugurated the Marine and Infrastructure Protection Unit. He also thanked the former Federal Controller of Works, Lagos, Engr. (Mrs.) O.I. Kesha, for her steadfast commitment to ensuring the Corps receives the logistical backing required to secure federal bridges and other critical infrastructure in the state.

The newly appointed Commander of the Marine and Infrastructure Protection Unit, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Oloyede Emmanuel Ige, expressed gratitude to the Honourable Minister, the Commandant General, and the Lagos State Commandant. He pledged to uphold the mandate of enhanced monitoring, patrol, and protection of all marine corridors and bridge infrastructure in Lagos.

The establishment of the Marine and Infrastructure Protection Unit is expected to significantly strengthen security around critical national assets by combating threats such as illegal dredging, excavation, vandalism, and encroachment. The speedboat will further aid in curbing unauthorized dredging operations that can compromise the structural integrity of bridges and potentially impact the state and national economy.

Addressing journalists at the launch, the Lagos State Commandant urged all licensed dredgers to operate strictly within the confines of the law. He issued stern warnings to perpetrators involved in illegal dredging, encroachment, and excavation to desist immediately or be prepared to face the full consequences of their actions.

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