The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Edo State has unveiled plans to regulate scrap dealers starting from 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against vandalism of critical national assets and infrastructure.
The State Commandant of the NSCDC, Saidi Akintayo, made the announcement on Friday in Benin, the state capital
Akintayo, who was represented by Deputy Commandant, Bola Morantiola, shared the news during the first state-level stakeholders’ meeting with scrap marketers and dealers.
The commandant explained that the meeting was convened to address the growing security and economic threats posed by unregulated scrap metal activities.
He added that the engagement aimed to establish a lawful, transparent, and accountable framework for the sector in the state.
According to him, the NSCDC is statutorily mandated to protect critical national assets and infrastructure and to regulate activities with security implications, including scrap metal trading.
“In Edo State, the NSCDC has been entrusted with monitoring, regulating, and enforcing compliance among scrap dealers to ensure their operations do not threaten public safety, economic development, or national security,” he said.
Akintayo noted that scrap trading had increasingly been linked to the vandalism of electricity installations, telecommunications facilities, rail lines, water infrastructure, and other public and private assets.
He said such acts undermine government investments, disrupt essential services, and endanger lives.
The commandant added that the corps is adopting a dual approach of sensitization and enforcement, emphasizing that awareness and education are crucial for achieving voluntary compliance.
“The engagement aims to educate dealers on legal frameworks, proper registration, scrap source documentation, adherence to standards, and the risks of dealing in illicit materials.
“NSCDC remains committed to dialogue and partnership, but we will not hesitate to enforce the law. Illegal scrap dealings will no longer be tolerated,” Akintayo stated.
He also mentioned that the command would intensify zonal monitoring, inspections, and intelligence-led operations, while strengthening collaboration with other security agencies to identify and prosecute offenders.
“Our objective is to encourage legitimate businesses while eliminating practices that fuel criminality,” he concluded.
