By Demola Akinyemi Ilorin

Against the backdrop of security concerns in the state, the newly deployed Kwara State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Bala Bawa Bodinga, has assured residents of safety, even as he rolled out fresh security measures across the state, including 24-hour surveillance in Ilorin and reinforced protection for worship centres.

Bodinga, speaking with journalists at the NSCDC headquarters in Ilorin, said his deployment to Kwara followed the directive of the Commandant General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, who mandated him to take over and strengthen security operations in the state.

He noted that while the public may not be privy to all operational details, decisive steps have already been taken to secure critical national assets and infrastructure, as well as protect lives and property.

According to him,“Not all security tactics and strategies can be made public, but I assure you that mechanisms have been put in place to safeguard critical infrastructure and ensure the safety of residents.”

The Commandant disclosed that since assuming office, he has ordered intensified night patrols across Ilorin metropolis.

“You can go round Ilorin at night and you will see our operatives on 24-hour surveillance. There has been no break in our operations,” he stated.

As part of proactive measures, he directed that all Jumu’ah mosques across the state must receive adequate security coverage on Fridays. He added that churches would equally be provided security on Sundays and during major services or special programmes.

“In the same way we are providing security for mosques on Fridays, churches will also be adequately secured on Sundays and during any critical congregation,” he assured.

On recent security concerns in Kaiama axis, the Commandant revealed that additional operatives have been deployed to the area to reinforce safety and prevent any breakdown of law and order.

Bodinga also stressed the importance of synergy with other security agencies in the state, describing collaboration as key to effective service delivery.

“I am already in contact with all service commanders in the state. We are sharing intelligence, ideas and strategies both overtly and covertly. The synergy is active and will be strengthened,” he said.

Responding to questions on modern security approaches, including training, retraining and provision of equipment, the Commandant said capacity building would remain a top priority under his leadership.

“I am an intelligence officer and an instructor. Training and retraining are continuous processes. Some aspects of our preparations cannot be disclosed, but our operatives will be technically equipped and professionally grounded for effective service delivery,” he explained.

He added that regular strategic meetings are being held to enhance knowledge-sharing among officers and boost proactive intelligence gathering.

On VIP protection, Bodinga disclosed that modalities have been activated in line with directives from the NSCDC headquarters, noting that he recently attended a high-level training on VIP security.

“All necessary plans have been activated to respond to requests for VIP protection. We are ready to give Kwara State and Nigeria the best in security service,” he said.

The Commandant, who has served in various operational and command capacities across the country, appealed to residents to support security agencies with credible information, assuring that the Corps remains committed to maintaining peace and stability in the state.

He also commended members of the media for their role in promoting security awareness, describing their work as critical to enhancing public safety.

Bodinga also hinted of his intention to request for more logistics from headquarters as might be necessary towards ensuring that his target of ensuring adequate safety for residents is met.