In a major move to safeguard the country during the festive period, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has mobilized a massive security force across the nation.
Massive Deployment for Enhanced Security
Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi has ordered the nationwide deployment of over 55,000 NSCDC operatives. The directive, issued ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations, aims to protect critical national assets and infrastructure while ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
Prof. Audi emphasized the critical need for this robust security posture, pointing out that festive seasons often see a spike in criminal activities. He stated that individuals with criminal intent exploit these periods to carry out their plans.
Strategy and Public Collaboration
The security strategy will involve a combination of both covert and overt operations to ensure comprehensive coverage and maximum human security. The Corps leadership has directed all Zonal Commanders and State Commandants to effectively coordinate the deployment across Area Commands, Divisional offices, and other formations.
A key pillar of the strategy is intelligence gathering. Prof. Audi, through a statement by the National Spokesman Afolabi Babawale, highlighted that threats like banditry, kidnapping, farmer-herder clashes, terrorism, and insurgency can be effectively countered with credible and sustained intelligence from the public.
"It is imperative for members of the public to trust and collaborate with us by providing credible and timely information," Prof. Audi noted. "This enables us to act swiftly to prevent crime rather than be reactive." He reaffirmed the NSCDC's commitment to creating a safe environment, achievable through strong public support and synergy with sister security agencies.
State-Level Joint Security Operations
In a related development, the Ogun State Police Command has launched intensified joint security operations for the yuletide season. This collaborative effort involves multiple agencies working together to bolster security across the state.
The personnel involved in the Ogun operation include:
- Officers of the Nigerian Army
- Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
- Amotekun Corps
- Ogun State Community Social Orientation and Security Corps (So-Safe)
- Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN)
Confirming the operation, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, said in a statement issued in Abeokuta that the goal is to strengthen patrols and improve security on major highways and strategic locations.
Significant deployments have been positioned along critical routes such as the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway and the Sagamu–Ijebu-Ode Road. The objective is to ensure the safety of lives and property, as well as guarantee the free movement of people and goods before, during, and after the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
