The Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command has deployed no less than 4,000 personnel to Abuja and its environs to ensure peaceful and safe Yuletide celebrations.
The FCT Commandant of the Corps, Olusola Odumosu, gave the directive as part of the security arrangement aimed at protecting lives, property and critical national assets and infrastructure (CNAI) before, during and after the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
This was contained in a statement signed by the FCT Command Public Relations Officer, Monica Ojobi, on Wednesday.
According to the command, the deployment of personnel covers all corners of the FCT and comprises officers drawn from various specialized departments and units.
“These include Arms Squad, Crack Squad, Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Unit, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives (CBRNE) Unit, Female Strike Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU) and Agro Rangers,” the statement said.
The Corps has increased security presence at identified vulnerable locations and soft targets such as churches, shopping malls, entertainment centres, markets, motor parks, amusement parks and areas hosting critical national infrastructure.
The aim, the command said, is to prevent criminal activities and ensure that residents and visitors celebrate in a safe environment.
“To enhance proactiveness and prevent emergencies or unexpected security challenges, undercover operatives have already been deployed for covert operations and intelligence-led surveillance across the region.
“Security coverage has also been extended to black spots, including unfinished and abandoned buildings that are suspected to serve as hiding places for criminal elements,” he said.
Odumosu issued strict instructions to all area commanders and divisional officers to maintain high visibility and ensure effective security coordination within their respective area councils.
The Commandant warned, “All hands must be on deck. I will not tolerate any security violations. Make sure that your personnel are completely obedient and active in the discharge of their duties.”
He charged the officers and men of the corps to maintain professionalism, exhibit good conduct and work in coordination with other security agencies.
The Commandant stressed the need for strict adherence to the rules of engagement, warning against harassment, intimidation of civilians or accidental discharge of firearms.
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While assuring residents of a safe and hassle-free celebration, Odumosu said the NSCDC is fully prepared to provide adequate security throughout the festive period and beyond.
He also called on residents of the FCT to remain vigilant and support security efforts by immediately reporting any suspicious activities, persons or actions to the nearest security agency.
“My personnel are prepared to ensure peaceful celebrations, but residents also have a role to play in being proactive, alert and cooperating with law enforcement agencies for our collective safety,” he said.
The Commandant warned criminals and miscreants to stay away from critical national assets and infrastructure, noting that the Corps' covert operators and patrolmen are strategically deployed across the city and will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute criminals.
