The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, marked a significant milestone in its commitment to bolstering security within the nation’s capital with the graduation of 137 officers from a rigorous Basic Arms Training program. Commandant Dr. Olusola Odumosu, presiding over the Passing Out Parade, underscored the crucial role these newly trained personnel will play in maintaining peace and security within the FCT. He emphasized the importance of professionalism, discipline, and adherence to the rules of engagement as the bedrock of their duties, urging them to remain vigilant and dedicated in safeguarding lives, property, and critical national infrastructure. The Commandant’s address served as a powerful reminder of the responsibilities entrusted to these officers and the expectations placed upon them as they embark on their assignments.
The graduation ceremony, held at the FCT Command Headquarters in Abuja, signified the culmination of an intensive training regimen designed to equip the officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively address the security challenges facing the FCT. Commandant Odumosu stressed the gravity of their mission, reminding them that their training had prepared them for the demanding tasks ahead, and that they are expected to perform their duties with utmost competence and resolve. He particularly emphasized the need for smart thinking and strategic action in combating vandalism, illegal mining, theft of public infrastructure, and other criminal activities. The Commandant’s words served as both a charge and an encouragement, underscoring the significant contribution these officers will make to the overall security landscape of the FCT.
The emphasis on professionalism and adherence to the rules of engagement was a recurring theme throughout the Commandant’s address. He underscored the importance of responsible firearms handling, reminding the graduating officers that their weapons are tools to protect lives and property, not instruments of aggression. He urged them to exercise restraint and sound judgment in all situations, ensuring their actions align with the highest ethical standards. This emphasis on responsible conduct reflects the NSCDC’s commitment to maintaining the public’s trust and ensuring that its personnel operate within the bounds of the law.
Commandant Odumosu’s address also highlighted the collaborative efforts within the NSCDC and the broader security architecture of the FCT. He acknowledged the dedication and expertise of the training instructors, praising their role in shaping the skills and instilling the values necessary for effective security operations. He further recognized the invaluable support received from the NSCDC Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Audi, and the Minister of the FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike, whose leadership and resource allocation have been instrumental in strengthening the Command’s operational capacity. This recognition underscores the importance of interagency cooperation and the shared commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the FCT.
The graduation of these 137 officers represents a significant step in the FCT Command’s ongoing efforts to enhance its operational capabilities and effectively address the evolving security challenges within the region. This cohort is part of a larger training initiative that has seen 272 officers retrained under the Batch A and B programs since October 2024. This commitment to continuous training and development demonstrates the Command’s proactive approach to maintaining a highly skilled and responsive security force capable of meeting the dynamic security needs of the FCT.
The passing out parade served not only as a celebration of the graduating officers’ achievements but also as a public reaffirmation of the NSCDC’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the FCT. Commandant Odumosu’s concluding remarks conveyed a strong message of reassurance to the public, emphasizing the Command’s dedication to its mandate and its resolve to continue combating crime and protecting critical infrastructure. This commitment underscores the NSCDC’s crucial role in maintaining peace and stability within the FCT and ensuring the well-being of its residents.
