The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, has deployed no fewer than 4,000 personnel across Abuja and its surrounding areas to ensure a peaceful and secure yuletide celebration.
Olusola Odumosu, FCT Commandant of the Corps, gave the directive as part of security arrangements aimed at safeguarding lives, property, and Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) before, during, and after the Christmas and New Year festivities.
This was contained in a statement signed by Monica Ojobi, FCT Command Public Relations Officer, on Wednesday.
According to the command, the personnel deployment covers all nooks and crannies of the FCT and involves officers drawn from various specialised departments and units.
“These include the 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 the Agro Rangers”, the statement read.
The Corps has also intensified security presence at identified vulnerable locations and soft targets, such as churches, shopping malls, recreational centres, markets, motor parks, amusement parks, and areas hosting critical national infrastructure.
This, the command said, is to deter criminal activities and ensure residents and visitors celebrate in a safe environment.
“To enhance proactiveness and forestall emergencies or unforeseen security challenges, undercover operatives have already been deployed for covert operations and intelligence-led surveillance across the territory.
“Security coverage has also been extended to black spots, including uncompleted and abandoned buildings suspected to serve as hideouts for criminal elements”, he stated.
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.
“All hands must be on deck. I will not tolerate any form of security breach. Ensure that your personnel are fully compliant and proactive in the discharge of their duties,” the commandant warned.
He further charged officers and men of the Corps to maintain professionalism, exhibit good conduct, and work in synergy with other security agencies.
The commandant stressed the need for strict adherence to the rules of engagement, cautioning against harassment, intimidation of citizens, or accidental discharge of firearms.
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Assuring residents of a safe and hitch-free celebration, Odumosu said the NSCDC was 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 promptly reporting any suspicious movements, persons, or activities to the nearest security agency.
“My personnel are ready to ensure a peaceful celebration, but residents also have a role to play by being proactive, vigilant, and willing to cooperate with law enforcement agencies for our collective safety,” he said.
The commandant warned criminals and vandals to stay away from Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, noting that covert operatives and patrol teams of the Corps are strategically positioned across the city and will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute offenders.
