The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has voiced serious concerns about the increasing rate of vandalism and theft affecting its infrastructure nationwide. During a recent visit to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) headquarters in Abuja, NRC Managing Director Mr. Freeborn Okhirie highlighted the ongoing crisis.
“Despite the NSCDC’s commendable efforts in protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI), which have led to numerous arrests, we continue to suffer significant losses due to vandalism,” Okhirie stated. He praised the NSCDC for its dedication but expressed frustration over the persistent damage to railway installations.
The NRC chief described the vandalism as “an organised conspiracy to commit economic sabotage,” emphasising the urgent need for a united front among stakeholders and security agencies to tackle the problem. “Rail tracks are still being vandalised, and the number of perpetrators is rising despite many arrests,” Okhirie said, stressing the need for more effective measures.
He called on Nigerians to aid in securing infrastructure by providing information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible. “We need everyone’s support to protect the infrastructure that serves the public,” Okhirie urged.
In response, NSCDC Commandant-General Ahmed Audi reported that the Corps had impounded over 20 trailers transporting stolen railway sleepers and made numerous arrests related to the vandalism. “We have detained many suspects involved in this crime,” Audi confirmed.
However, Audi acknowledged challenges in the prosecution process and vowed to enhance the NSCDC’s efforts. “We are committed to working harder to prevent these acts and will strengthen our disciplinary measures against any personnel found undermining our efforts,” he said. He also appealed to the NRC for support in improving the welfare of personnel tasked with protecting railway infrastructure.
