NSCDC launches campaign to protect telecom infrastructure in Kano

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kano State Command, has cautioned residents against taking shelter under telecommunication masts during heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, warning that the practice poses serious safety risks.

The warning was issued on Friday as the command launched a statewide public awareness campaign to promote safety during the rainy season and protect critical telecommunications infrastructure from vandalism.

Speaking at the launch, the Kano State Commandant, Mohammed Agalama, said residents should avoid tampering with telecommunication masts, underground cables, power installations and other telecommunications facilities, describing such acts as economic sabotage that threaten public safety and national security.

He explained that telecommunications infrastructure remains essential to communication, emergency response, banking services, security operations and other key sectors of the economy.

Agalama noted that the current rainy season, characterised by heavy downpours, thunderstorms and strong winds, increases the risks around telecom installations. He urged residents to avoid seeking refuge beneath masts during storms and to promptly report damaged or suspicious facilities to the nearest NSCDC office or relevant authorities.

“Telecommunication infrastructure remains a critical national asset that supports communication, security operations, emergency response, banking services and economic activities,” he said.

The commandant stressed that protecting the facilities is a collective responsibility and called on residents to support efforts to curb vandalism and ensure uninterrupted telecommunications services across the state.

As part of the campaign, Agalama directed all 44 divisional officers in Kano to embark on grassroots sensitisation by engaging traditional rulers, community leaders, market associations, youth groups, schools and religious institutions on the importance of safeguarding telecommunications infrastructure and observing safety precautions during adverse weather.

He reaffirmed the corps’ commitment to protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, warning that anyone caught vandalising or interfering with telecommunications facilities would be arrested and prosecuted.

The awareness campaign will be coordinated statewide by the NSCDC Department of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Protection, headed by DCC Victor Bala Muhd.