By Abbanobi -Eku Onyeka
Abuja
The Federal Government has urged the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to intensify its intelligence efforts to combat the rising security threats across the nation. This call was made by the Hon. Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during the decoration ceremony of 113 newly promoted commandants and the Corps’ National PRO, who was promoted to Assistant Commandant.
In a press release from Afolabi Babawale the Public Relations Officer NSCDC Headquarters Abuja on Thursday, the Minister, represented by the Secretary of the Civil Defence, Corrections, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), Maj. Gen. Abdulmalik Jibrin fdc (Rtd), commended the NSCDC for its efforts in protecting critical national assets and infrastructure, as well as lives and property. He emphasized the need for the Corps to develop intelligence strategies to address emerging threats to peace and development.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo also reminded the newly promoted senior officers of their additional responsibility of protecting Very Important Personalities (VIPs), a task formerly handled by the Nigeria Police. He charged them to justify the confidence reposed in the Service by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
The Minister noted that the promotions were merit-based and aimed at boosting the morale of the officers for effective discharge of their duties. He assured all personnel that the Board of Interior would grant requests that would enhance outstanding performance and diligence to duty.
The NSCDC Commandant General, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, tasked the newly promoted officers on the need to mentor their subordinates and embrace their new leadership roles. He assured them of timely redeployment and cautioned against lobbying for favorable postings, emphasizing that merit and performance would guide the process.
Professor Audi also decorated the Corps’ National PRO, who was promoted to Assistant Commandant of Corps.
Commandant Ekanem Ikponmwosa Ekpenyong, speaking on behalf of the newly promoted officers, pledged to discharge their duties with integrity and adhere to the Oath of Allegiance.
The event was attended by representatives of the Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, Chief of the Air Staff, Inspector General of Police, and Director General of the Department of State Services, who brought goodwill messages.
The Controller General of Corrections and CG Federal Fire Service also sent goodwill messages.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the career of the newly promoted officers, who are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing national security.
The NSCDC has been playing a vital role in protecting lives and property, and the promotion of these officers is expected to boost their efforts in tackling insecurity in the country.
