A total of 3,000 personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, have been deployed across the Federal Capital Territory to tighten security ahead of Nigeria’s Independence Anniversary celebrations.
The NSCDC FCT Command in a statement by its spokesperson, DSC Monica Ojobi, said the deployment is aimed at protecting lives and property while safeguarding Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, CNAI, before, during and after the celebrations.
It said the operation targets volatile areas and potential security flashpoints, including shopping malls, recreational centres, markets, motor parks, amusement parks and other locations expected to witness increased human activity during the celebrations.
The command said the deployment cuts across specialised units, including the Arms Squared, Female Strike Force, Crack Squad, Agro Rangers, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives, CBRNE, Unit and Counter-Terrorism Unit.
The statement also quoted the Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, as saying that undercover operatives had already been deployed for covert operations and surveillance as part of efforts to detect and prevent security breaches before they occur.
It added that uncompleted buildings identified as potential hideouts for criminals were also being monitored.
Odumosu directed all Area Commanders and Divisional Officers across the FCT to maintain a strong security presence in their respective jurisdictions and ensure that their personnel remain fully prepared throughout the celebrations.
“As usual, I will not tolerate any form of security breaches, all hands must be on deck, ensure your personnel comply wholesomely”.
He also directed personnel to maintain discipline, adhere strictly to the rules of engagement and work closely with other security agencies.
The commandant warned officers against harassment, intimidation of citizens and accidental discharge, stressing the need for professionalism throughout the operation.
Odumosu assured FCT residents of a safe Independence celebration and urged them to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements, individuals or groups to security agencies.
“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,” the Commandant said.
He also warned criminals and vandals to stay away from Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, saying covert officers and patrol teams had been deployed across the city.
The command urged residents to cooperate with security personnel and remain alert before, during and after the Independence celebrations.
