In a move to assess operational readiness firsthand, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, paid unscheduled visits to key security and emergency response facilities in the nation's capital on November 28, 2025.
Spot Checks on Security Preparedness
The minister's first stop was the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) FCT Command, where he inspected the ongoing construction of a training ground. He stated that President Bola Tinubu has issued a marching order for all agencies under the Ministry of Interior to be optimally positioned for effective service delivery.
During his assessment, Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized the critical role of the NSCDC in national safety. "The President is putting all hands on deck to make sure that we have a safe Nigeria," he said, noting that security is a continuous process. He praised the proactive steps taken by the Corps and its sister agencies to combat insecurity through constant training and capacity building.
Focus on Training and Future Readiness
While examining the new training facility for arms guards, the minister highlighted the importance of forward-thinking in paramilitary services. "You can only give what you have," he remarked, expressing satisfaction with the FCT Command's efforts. "We must keep training, retraining and investing in training so that these gallant officers can continue to give their best to Nigeria," he asserted.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo assured that the Ministry, under President Tinubu's leadership, would continue to support all paramilitary agencies. He charged officers and personnel to discharge their duties with efficiency and respect for fundamental human rights, stressing that the President is trusting them to deliver on internal security and the protection of critical national assets.
Fire Service Facility Draws Minister's Displeasure
The visit to the Federal Fire Service (FFS) station in Wuse Zone 3, however, revealed some shortcomings. The Minister expressed his dissatisfaction with the state of the facility, stating he had identified issues that made him "not too comfortable."
He emphasized the critical nature of the Fire Service as a rescue agency, which must be prepared for emergencies at all times. "These are issues that must never happen again," he declared, adding that he would take the matters up with the FFS Controller General to ensure immediate corrections and prevent a recurrence.
The Minister concluded by stating that the Ministry will continue to conduct unscheduled, on-the-spot assessments of paramilitary commands across the country to ensure Nigerians receive the best possible services.
