The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has deployed more than 55,000 operatives across the country to ensure safety and security during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The nationwide deployment was ordered by the Commandant General of the corps, Prof. Ahmed Audi, as part of measures to protect critical national assets and infrastructure, as well as lives and property before, during and after the yuletide period.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the corps spokesperson, Babawale Afolabi, the NSCDC said the operation was designed to strengthen the nation’s security framework, noting that criminal elements often take advantage of festive seasons to engage in unlawful activities.
The statement said the Commandant General directed that personnel be fully mobilised across all states to provide effective coverage and reassurance to citizens.
According to the corps, the deployment cuts across both covert and overt operations to guarantee maximum protection of public and private assets.
Audi said security threats such as banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, insurgency and farmer herder clashes could be better tackled if members of the public support security agencies with timely and credible information.
He said, “Members of the public must trust and collaborate with us by giving us credible and timely information to enable us to act swiftly to prevent crimes rather than being reactive.”
The NSCDC boss also directed zonal commanders to closely supervise formations under their jurisdictions, while state commandants were tasked with coordinating area commands, divisional offices and other units to ensure seamless operations throughout the festive period.
Audi reaffirmed the corps’ commitment to working with other security agencies to maintain peace and stability across the country. He said the NSCDC remained ready to ensure a safe environment that would allow social and economic activities to thrive during the celebrations.
“We assure Nigerians of our readiness to work in synergy with sister security agencies to ensure safety and peace for development to thrive,” he said.
The yuletide season in Nigeria is often characterised by increased travel, religious gatherings and commercial activities, which usually place additional pressure on security agencies.
Over the years, there has been a rise in crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping and vandalism of public infrastructure during festive periods, prompting heightened security measures.
