The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed over 28,000 operatives across the country to ensure a peaceful and secure holiday period.
According to a directive issued by the NSCDC’s Commandant General, Dr Ahmed Audi, operatives from several specialised units, including the Intelligence Directorate, Special Female Squad, Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad, Mining Marshals, Quick Response Tactical Team, Counter Terrorism Unit, Operations Department, and Special Weapons and Tactics, have been mobilised.
Audi, in a statement signed by corps spokesperson Afolabi Babawale on Wednesday, noted that the large-scale deployment was part of the corps’ continued efforts to defend important national assets and infrastructure, as well as to protect people and property around the country.
He warned against the possibility of criminal activity during the holiday season and emphasised the importance of avoiding threats from unscrupulous elements.
Audi, speaking at a strategic security meeting with top management, state commandants, and formation chiefs, advocated for more information gathering through community participation.
According to the statement, the NSCDC boss emphasised the importance of genuine tip-offs in assisting successful security operations, noting that no single agency has a monopoly on combating instability.
He also directed the 36 state commandants and the FCT Command to promote efficient coordination and engagement with other security agencies and local populations.
According to him, such coordinated measures are critical in addressing security issues like insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, vandalism, illegal bunkering, and farmer-herder confrontations.
“We also call on members of the public to support this course of action so that together we can attain the goal of effective security coverage across the board,” Audi said.
The CG also urged private security operators to contribute by promptly sharing intelligence and strengthening information networks, especially in times of emergency.
