The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, has deployed 3,000 personnel across the FCT to ensure the safety of residents and critical national assets and infrastructure before, during, and after Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.
FCT Commandant of the Corps, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, ordered the deployment as part of measures to enforce law and order and ensure a peaceful celebration across the nation’s capital.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSC Monica Ojobi, in a statement on Tuesday said the deployment covers specialised departments and units of the Corps, including the Arms Squad, Female Strike Force, Crack Squad, Agro Rangers, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive (CBRNE) Unit, as well as the Counter-Terrorism Unit.
She said personnel had also been deployed to volatile areas and identified soft targets, including shopping malls, recreational centres, markets, motor parks, amusement parks and locations housing Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI).
According to the statement, undercover operatives had been deployed for covert operations and surveillance as part of efforts to prevent security breaches and respond proactively to emergencies.
Ojobi further noted that black spots, including uncompleted buildings suspected of harbouring criminal elements, are also being monitored to prevent acts capable of undermining the peaceful celebration.
Odumosu also directed all Area Commanders and Divisional Officers to ensure that their respective Area Councils remain security-conscious and maintain visible presence throughout the period.
“As usual, I will not tolerate any form of security breaches. All hands must be on deck. Ensure your personnel comply wholesomely,” he said.
The Commandant charged personnel to remain disciplined and conduct themselves professionally, while working in synergy with other security agencies to protect lives, property and government critical national assets and infrastructure.
He further directed personnel to adhere strictly to the rules of engagement, warning them against harassment and intimidation of citizens, as well as accidental discharge.
Odumosu assured FCT residents of a safe and peaceful Independence anniversary, saying the Command had taken necessary measures to secure the territory before, during and after the celebration.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements, individuals or groups to the nearest security agency.
“We are ready to ensure the celebration is peaceful. You have a responsibility to carry out; you must be proactive, vigilant and ready to cooperate with us for our common good,” the Commandant said.
He warned criminals and vandals to stay away from Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, stressing that NSCDC covert officers and patrol teams had been deployed across the city.
“Odumosu wished residents of the FCT a peaceful and happy Independence anniversary,” the statement added.
