The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, has deployed 3,000 personnel across Abuja to strengthen security during Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary celebrations.
The deployment was ordered by the FCT Commandant, Dr Olusola Odumosu, to protect lives and Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) before, during and after the celebrations. The command also deployed its undercover unit for covert operations and surveillance to detect and prevent possible security threats.
Odumosu said the personnel were drawn from specialised units, including the Arms Squad, Female Strike Force, Crack Squad, Agro Rangers, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Explosive (CBRNE) Unit and Counter-Terrorism Unit. He said operatives had been positioned at potentially vulnerable locations such as shopping malls, recreational centres, markets, motor parks, parks and areas housing critical infrastructure.
The commandant directed area commanders and divisional officers to maintain a visible security presence and prevent breaches during the celebrations. He also urged personnel to remain disciplined, work with other security agencies, follow rules of engagement and avoid harassment, intimidation and accidental discharge.
Odumosu assured residents of a peaceful celebration and urged them to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or individuals to the nearest security agency. He also warned criminals and vandals against attacking critical infrastructure, saying covert officers and patrol teams had been deployed across the FCT to respond to offenders.
