NEWS
NSCDC Vows Stronger VIP Protection Under President Tinubu’s Directive, Pledges Strategic Collaboration and Enhanced Manpower
The Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Audi, has declared the corps’ readiness to assume expanded responsibilities in protecting Very Important Persons (VIPs), in full compliance with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Dr. Audi made this position public on Tuesday during the CG’s quarterly meeting with senior officers held at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja. The announcement comes on the heels of President Tinubu’s recent order directing the withdrawal of police officers from individuals, with NSCDC now expected to take on broader protective roles.
Reaffirming the corps’ unwavering dedication to the Renewed Hope Agenda, the NSCDC boss noted that although the corps is experiencing manpower limitations, it remains firmly committed to providing protection to Nigerians and safeguarding Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) across the country.
“Despite our size, we are not complaining, as this assignment is one the corps is ready to tackle. It is a welcome idea,” the CG stated.
Dr. Audi explained that the primary purpose of the meeting was to deliberate on modalities and actionable strategies for the successful execution of the new VIP protection mandate. He further revealed that the corps would embark on strategic consultations with key stakeholders across relevant sectors to enable smooth and professional delivery of the new duties assigned.
He clarified that VIP protection is not entirely new to the corps, as NSCDC operatives have long been involved in this service alongside other security agencies.
“We have been part of it alongside other agencies. It is important to note that we get trained by the military, especially our special forces,” he added.
The CG also announced that the ongoing recruitment exercise by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) will significantly boost NSCDC manpower and operational capacity, particularly in responding to the increased responsibilities under Tinubu’s directive.
While urging state commandants and heads of formations to discharge their duties with diligence and utmost professionalism, Dr. Audi issued a stern warning against negligence, stressing that any display of laxity would attract strict sanctions.
“We will strengthen the monitoring mechanism on the performance of heads of formations nationwide, to check what they do and assess them,” he warned.
He concluded by applauding NSCDC personnel nationwide for their professionalism, resilience, and steadfast commitment to advancing the corps’ mandate, even in the f
ace of challenges.