By Omeiza Ajayi

ABUJA: As part of measures to boost the security of the nation’s capital, Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory FCT Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC has set up a fully armed emergency response squad, trained to quickly intervene in high-risk situations.

FCT Commandant of the Corps, Dr Olusola Odumosu disclosed this on Wednesday at the Passing out Parade of the 3rd Batch of personnel for Basic Arms Training held at the Command’s grounds in Wuse Zone 5.

He said; “Today, we are not just passing out personnel who just concluded basic weapons 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.

“To support and sustain these laudable initiatives, the Command is looking forward to having a state-of-the-art training ground. This will be a game changer in our training and development infrastructure”.

Odumosu said the third batch of graduands in basic weapons handling, made up of 200 personnel, is a clear testament that the Corps is not resting on its oars.

“Like the African proverb says, when the rhythm of the drumbeat changes, the dance steps must adapt. The security landscape in the FCT is evolving, and so must we. 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 and Tactical Response, enhancing professionalism for armed squad personnel. I can go on and on”, he said.

According to him, the trainings which cut across Area Commands and Divisions 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 the society.

He charged the graduating personnel to be mindful of their rules of engagement and standard operating procedures, saying, “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 harassment or intimidation. It is for service”.

Odumosu also thanked the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for his steadfast support, encouragement, and visionary guidance.

“When the tree stands tall, it is because its roots are deep. The CG has been that deep root of strength and direction for this command. It is at this juncture I would like to say a big thank you to the Honorable Minister of the FCT, His Excellency, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike for always standing by us and supporting us with operational equipment to make our work better and more efficient”, he said.