The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has certified 200 personnel of its Federal Capital Territory Command who underwent basic arms training.
The 200 personnel were the third batch of officers who had gone through such training under the current leadership in Abuja Command.
Speaking during the passing out parade Tuesday in at the FCT Command, the Dr. Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, described the event as a strong statement of unwavering commitment to capacity building, operational readiness, and the overall enhancement of internal security architecture within the FCT.
According to him, the third batch of graduands in basic weapons handling is a clear testament that we are not resting on our oars. Like the African proverb says, “When the rhythm of the drumbeat changes, the dance steps must adapt.”
He said the she security landscape in the FCT was evolving, hence the Command must rust to the occasion.
“The training of this batch is part of a carefully thought-out series of trainings designed to respond proactively to emerging security threats with precision, discipline, and professionalism.
“Let me reiterate without mincing words that this is not the end; it is a continuum. The first and second batches of 135 and 137 personnel respectively brought the total number of trained personnel in weapon handling to 472.
“Under my leadership, the Command has undertaken several strategic training programmes ranging from workshops and seminars on intelligence gathering, to advanced investigation techniques, to capacity building on the duties of our provost personnel, to basic training in sign language, training on Security Operations & Tactical Response, enhancing professionalism for armed squad personnel. I can go on and on.
“These trainings cut across Area Commands and Divisions and the initiative is part of a broader vision to mould a responsive, versatile, intelligent, and elite Corps that can engage with the public in every corner of our society.
“Today, we are not just passing out personnel who just concluded basic weapon handling training. We are flagging off our “Emergency Response Team” Another crucial phase of our transformation journey. This elite team will serve as a quick response unit, specially trained and tactically equipped to intervene swiftly in high-risk situations. We are deliberate in what we are doing, and our vision is clear: to build a Corps that is not only responsive but also anticipatory in approach.”
Commandant Odumosu revealed that his Command was looking forward to having a state-of-the-art training ground, adding that such will be a game changer in the Corps training and development infrastructure.
While congratulating the personnel, Odumosu charged them to embrace discipline, integrity, and professionalism as their watchwords at all times.
“Let me also remind you that this is just the beginning. The rifle is not merely a weapon; it is a responsibility. It must not be misused. Let discipline, integrity, and professionalism be your watchwords at all times. The NSCDC uniform you wear is not for harrasment or intimidation. It is for service.
“We are forging ahead. We are building capacity. We are breaking new grounds. And by the grace of God and the support of all our stakeholders, the FCT Command will remain a model of excellence in security management and civil defence operations across Nigeria.”