BY DAVID ADUGE-ANI, ABUJA
Determined to boost the security architecture in the nation’s capital, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command has trained 135 officers on basic arms and weapons handling.
Speaking at the passing out parade of the officers in Abuja on Tuesday, the Commandant, NSCDC-FCT Command, Olusola Odumosu PhD, said the training would help fulfil the Corps’ mandate of ensuring that Nigeria’s Critical National Assets and Infrastructure are effectively protected from vandalism.
Odumosu noted that the training is a step taken by the Command to curb the challenges of vandalism and other vices hampering the peace and development of the territory, adding that with the new trainees, the Command is better positioned in the fight against vandalism and protection of lives and property.
He disclosed that from January till date, the Command has arrested over 120 suspected vandals, adding that out of these cases, the corps has secured court convictions, while some are still ongoing.
In a statement by the public relations officer of the Command,
CSC Samuel A. Idoko, the Commandant congratulated the officers, stating that Nigeria can now rely on them for their protection in discharge of their duties, even as he charged them to always remember the rules of engagement, be more professional in handling their riffles, and in protection of lives and property.
Odumosu lauded the FCT minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his unalloyed support to the NSCDC FCT Command, noting that his support to the command, through the provision of operational vehicles, motorcycles and other operational gadgets has been an immense boost to it capability.
Also speaking, a representative of FCT Minister and director of security in Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Adamu Buba Gwary, expressed pleasure for the gallantry exhibited by the armed trained personnel, adding that the trained personnel would be a boost to the security architecture in the FCT.
He commended the FCT Commandant for providing the necessary tools for his officers and charged the personnel to ensure roles of engagement at all times.
The highlight of the occasion was the parade by trainees, unarmed combat display, silent drills and award presentation to outstanding graduands.