A civil society group, the Initiative for Leadership Development and Change (ILDC), has commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the installation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras and solar-powered lighting on the Second Niger Bridge, describing the decision as a timely boost to security on a critical national asset.
Speaking during an interaction with journalists, ILDC President, Chief Ugochukwu Nnam, said the project aligns with the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its focus on safeguarding key infrastructure and improving national security.
Nnam noted that the Second Niger Bridge serves as a major economic and transport corridor linking the South-East, South-South and other regions, making enhanced security measures necessary to protect commuters and preserve the facility.
According to him, the deployment of CCTV cameras will enable real-time surveillance, deter criminal activity and support rapid response, while the solar-powered lighting will improve visibility for motorists, especially at night and during peak traffic periods.
He added that the initiative reflects a proactive approach to infrastructure management, stressing that preventive security measures are more cost-effective than repeated repairs resulting from vandalism or neglect.
While praising the Federal Government’s action, Nnam urged Nigerian youths and host communities to take responsibility for protecting public assets, warning against vandalism of critical infrastructure.
“Protecting government infrastructure is vital for national security and economic stability. When facilities are vandalised, scarce public resources meant for development are diverted to repairs,” he said.
The ILDC president also referenced similar security upgrades on the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, where CCTV cameras, solar lighting and a modern surveillance centre have been deployed to enhance safety and deter criminal activities.
He explained that the Lagos surveillance system has helped prevent crimes such as illegal sand mining and reduced suicide attempts, contributing to safer travel conditions on the bridge.
Nnam said the installation of surveillance systems on major bridges forms part of a broader national strategy to strengthen security, preserve public assets and promote sustainable infrastructure management across the country.