The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory Command, has deployed 3,000 personnel across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of intensified security arrangements for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
The deployment, ordered by the FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, is designed to strengthen security, maintain law and order and protect lives and property before, during and after the anniversary celebrations.
The Command said the operation would cover strategic locations and areas considered vulnerable to security breaches, including shopping malls, markets, motor parks, amusement and recreational centres, as well as Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) across the nation’s capital.
Personnel drawn from specialised units of the Corps—including the Arms Squad, Female Strike Force, Crack Squad, Agro Rangers, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Explosives (CBRNE) Unit and Counter-Terrorism Unit—are participating in the operation.
The Commandant has also activated the Corps’ undercover operatives for covert surveillance and intelligence-gathering, with particular attention being paid to locations regarded as potential hideouts for criminals.
According to the Command, uncompleted buildings and other identified black spots across the FCT are also being monitored as part of measures to prevent criminal activities and possible security breaches.
Dr. Odumosu has directed Area Commanders and Divisional Officers to maintain a strong operational presence in their respective Area Councils and ensure that personnel remain alert throughout the celebration period.
“As usual, I will not tolerate any form of security breach. All hands must be on deck. Ensure your personnel comply wholesomely,” the Commandant warned.
He further directed officers and men to maintain discipline, work closely with other security agencies and adhere strictly to the rules of engagement.
The NSCDC chief specifically cautioned personnel against harassment and intimidation of citizens, while also directing them to guard against accidental discharge during operations.
The Command said the security operation was not limited to physical deployment, as surveillance and intelligence-led measures had already commenced ahead of the celebrations.
Dr. Odumosu also appealed to residents of the FCT to play an active role in maintaining security by remaining vigilant and promptly reporting suspicious movements, individuals or groups to the nearest security agency.
“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,” he said.
The Commandant warned criminals and vandals against targeting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, stressing that NSCDC covert operatives and patrol teams had been deployed across the capital.
He assured residents that the Command would sustain security operations before, during and after the Independence Anniversary to ensure a peaceful celebration.
The deployment comes as Abuja prepares for activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, with the NSCDC urging residents to celebrate peacefully and cooperate with security agencies throughout the period.
