The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Cross River State Command, has intensified its campaign against illegal mining and other security threats during an operational assessment tour of the northern part of the state.
The State Commandant, Okarazu C. E., led the tour to NSCDC divisions in Obudu, Obanliku and Bekwarra Local Government Areas, where he met with community leaders, traditional rulers and security stakeholders.
The visit also featured engagements with leaders of the Igbo and Hausa communities, youth groups and heads of other security agencies as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration in tackling crime and safeguarding critical national assets.
During a meeting in Bekwarra, the Commandant held discussions with the Executive Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, Egbung Odama, on strategies to improve grassroots security. The council chairman commended the NSCDC for its increased presence in rural communities and pledged continued support for the Corps’ operations in the area.
Addressing stakeholders in Obudu and Obanliku, Commandant Okarazu warned residents against engaging in or shielding illegal mining activities, describing the state’s mineral resources as critical national assets that must be protected.
He urged traditional rulers, youth leaders and residents to provide information on illegal miners to security agencies to enable prompt arrest and prosecution, stressing that the Corps remains committed to sanitising the mining sector in the state.
The Commandant noted that the initiative aligns with the directive of the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to strengthen the protection of national assets and curb illegal activities in the mining sector.
During the visit to Obanliku, the member representing the constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Pius Ashakia, commended the efforts of the NSCDC division in the area and assured the Corps of his support.
Security chiefs from other agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services, also received the Commandant during the tour, highlighting ongoing cooperation among security agencies in Cross River State.