The increasing spate of infrastructure vandalism in the Federal Capital Territory has become a major economic and social concern, costing the city an estimated N4.7bn annually in replacement costs, a professor at Nile University, Abdulhameed Mambo, has stated.

Mambo, who is Head of Civil Engineering and Dean of Environmental Science at the university, highlighted the issue at the 5th Annual Public Lecture organised by the Bwari branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers recently in Abuja.

This figure reflects the staggering expenses required to replace stolen or damaged public infrastructure, including manholes and power lines.

The lecture titled ‘The Role of Public and Security Agencies in Combating the Menace of Infrastructure Vandalism in the Federal Capital Territory’ focused on solutions to this growing problem.

The PUNCH reports that there have been a series of manhole thefts and vandalisation of public property, with the government working to recover the stolen items and prosecute offenders.

Last month, the FCT police recovered 125 stolen manhole covers, reaffirming their commitment to cracking down on criminals targeting public infrastructure.

The academic in his lecture pointed out that infrastructure vandalism in Abuja is not only a financial burden but also a threat to public safety and national development.

He cited the theft of manhole covers and other public utilities, with over 1,200 manhole thefts reported in recent years alone.

“Infrastructure vandalism in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory has reached alarming levels, undermining development efforts and threatening public safety. The destruction of power lines, communication networks, transportation systems, and public utilities carries staggering economic costs estimated at N4.7bn annually in Abuja alone.

“These statistics represent more than just numbers—they reflect stolen opportunities, shattered dreams, and a betrayal of our collective progress.

“The human cost of such vandalism is equally alarming. Damaged infrastructure creates hazardous conditions in public spaces, endangering citizens’ safety. Additionally, persistent vandalism erodes public trust in government and security agencies, which complicates efforts to protect critical infrastructure,” he stated.

Professor Mambo further proposed a multifaceted approach to combat the issue, including the implementation of advanced surveillance technologies, community engagement, and policy reforms.

He emphasised that artificial intelligence-powered security cameras, tamper-proof sensors on manholes, and blockchain technology for tracking stolen metals have been successfully used in cities like Singapore and Rotterdam and could be adopted in Abuja.

Mambo also suggested strengthening community involvement through awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, and enhanced reporting systems.

These, he argued, could foster a collective effort to protect Nigeria’s vital infrastructure.

The lecture, attended by experts and stakeholders, underscored the urgent need for a coordinated response to infrastructure vandalism, a problem that continues to hinder both economic growth and public safety in the FCT.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Chairman of NSE Bwari Branch, Funbi Alonge, highlighted the importance of the lecture, noting that infrastructure vandalism has far-reaching consequences on essential services, economic stability, and public well-being.

She urged attendees to explore ways to combat the menace and safeguard the nation’s infrastructure for future generations.

“The topic was carefully selected to create more awareness and discuss ways of combating the problem of vandalism of infrastructure, which is rampant in our country, especially in the capital city.

She stated, “As we gather here today, I want to let you know that vandalism has affected our national life in so many areas, such as the disruption of essential services, economic costs of repairing and maintaining damaged infrastructure, potential loss of life or permanent disability, and so on. We have the opportunity to explore the complexities of this problem and discuss the roles of relevant stakeholders towards stopping incidents of vandalism.

“This gathering provides the opportunity for us to hear from the experts and stakeholders who will share their experiences with us on the topic of discussion.”