Public Utilities Must Be Protected from Vandals — Engr. Egbe
Benjamin GBOR
The Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on Public Utilities, Engr. Dr. Jerome Egbe, KSM, has emphasized the need for stronger collaboration in safeguarding public utilities across the state.
Engr. Egbe stated this on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, when he paid a courtesy visit to the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Cross River State Command, Mr. Brown Charles, in Calabar.
The visit, according to the Special Adviser, was aimed at strengthening the partnership between the Department of Public Utilities and the NSCDC to protect critical infrastructure from vandalism and other criminal activities.
Engr. Egbe stressed the importance of protecting all government-owned facilities, describing them as vital assets that sustain development and public service delivery in the state.
“The protection of our public utilities is central to His Excellency, Senator Bassey Edet Otu’s vision for a sustainable and secure Cross River State,” he said.
During the visit, the Special Adviser inspected parts of the NSCDC Command affected by a recent rainstorm, which destroyed sections of the roofing and left the offices flooded. He sympathized with the personnel and assured them of the state government’s readiness to support their operations.
Engr. Egbe also commended the Command for initiating the 2025 Empowerment Programme in Oil and Gas Tank Farm Operations, describing it as a laudable initiative that equips officers with technical and safety skills essential for protecting strategic installations.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting all security agencies, reiterating that Governor Otu’s “Season of Sweetness” includes every sector of the state.
“Security remains a top priority in this administration. We will continue to strengthen partnerships that ensure our critical infrastructure and utilities are protected,” he added.
Earlier in his remarks, Commandant Brown Charles lamented the deplorable state of the Command’s facilities, noting that persistent rainfall had worsened leaks and structural damage to key offices.
He disclosed that the situation had affected sensitive areas such as the armoury, ICT unit, and other critical departments.
The Commandant appealed for the state government’s urgent intervention in repairing the damaged structures, providing operational vehicles, and installing solar lighting systems to enhance nighttime operations.
