Independence Celebration : NSCDC Deploys 3,000 Personnel To Beef Up Security Across FCT

***Orders intensified surveillance, warns criminals, vandals

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, has deployed 3,000 personnel across the FCT to beef up security for this year’s Independence Day celebration, as the Corps intensifies surveillance to protect lives, property and Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI).

The deployment, ordered by the FCT Commandant, Dr Olusola Odumosu, is aimed at ensuring a peaceful celebration before, during and after the anniversary, with personnel drawn from specialised departments and units of the Corps.

According to the Command, the operation covers the length and breadth of the FCT and is designed to prevent security breaches, respond swiftly to emergencies and maintain law and order throughout the celebration.

The deployed personnel include officers from the Arms Squad, Female Strike Force, Crack Squad, Agro Rangers, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Explosive (CBRNE) Unit, and Counter-Terrorism Unit.

The Command said special attention had been given to areas considered vulnerable to security threats, including shopping malls, recreational centres, markets, motor parks, amusement parks and locations hosting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure.

It added that undercover personnel had already commenced covert operations and surveillance as part of measures to identify and prevent potential threats before they escalate.

The Command also disclosed that security personnel had been deployed to black spots, including uncompleted buildings suspected of harbouring criminal elements, as part of efforts to prevent criminal activities and other security breaches.

Odumosu directed all Area Commanders and Divisional Officers to ensure that their respective Area Councils remained vigilant and maintained visible security presence throughout the period.

“As usual, I will not tolerate any form of security breaches. All hands must be on deck; ensure your personnel comply wholesomely,” the Commandant said.

The FCT helmsman further charged NSCDC personnel to maintain discipline and professionalism while working closely with other security agencies to protect residents, property and government-owned critical infrastructure.

He directed personnel to adhere strictly to the rules of engagement and warned them against harassment or intimidation of citizens, as well as accidental discharge of firearms.

Odumosu assured residents of the FCT that the Command had put adequate measures in place to provide a secure environment for the Independence Anniversary celebrations.

He, however, urged residents to complement the efforts of security agencies by remaining vigilant and promptly reporting suspicious persons, movements or activities to the nearest security agency.

“We are ready to ensure the celebration is peaceful. You have a responsibility to carry out; you must be proactive, vigilant and ready to cooperate with us for our common good,” he said.

The Commandant also issued a warning to criminals and vandals targeting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, saying the Corps had intensified surveillance and patrol operations across the capital.

He said NSCDC covert operatives and patrol teams were positioned across the city and would take appropriate action against anyone found violating the law.

Odumosu urged FCT residents to celebrate responsibly and cooperate with security personnel throughout the Independence Anniversary period.

The Command wished residents of the Federal Capital Territory a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary.

The statement was signed by the FCT Command Public Relations Officer, DSC Monica Ojobi, on behalf of the Command.