The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), FCT Command, has successfully concluded the Passing Out Parade (P.O.P) of Batch B Basic Arms Training, with 137 officers and men officially completing the rigorous program. The event, held at the NSCDC FCT Command Headquarters, Abuja, highlights the Corps’ commitment to security enhancement through continuous training.
This milestone follows the Batch A Passing Out Parade on October 8, 2024, where 135 personnel completed similar training. In total, 272 officers and men have undergone advanced arms training in under a year.
In his address at the ceremony, the Commandant of the FCT Command, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, lauded the efforts of the officers and instructors. “It is with great pleasure and a sense of accomplishment for me seeing us gathered here today to witness yet another passing out parade of officers and men who have undergone basic arms training,” he said.
The Commandant noted the importance of homegrown training, a shift from the previous practice of relying solely on NSCDC training schools or sister agencies. Dr. Odumosu expressed gratitude to the NSCDC Commandant General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for approving and supporting the program.
“For us at the FCT and as a Corps in general, training and retraining is a continuous process,” he emphasized. “What we are doing here today is one of the ways we are stepping up our games against criminal elements in the FCT in line with the proactiveness and pace of the Honorable Minister of the FCT, Chief Barrister Nyesom Wike.”
Strengthening FCT Security
The Commandant reiterated the Corps’ commitment to addressing emerging security challenges in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). He highlighted the critical role of the NSCDC in safeguarding critical national assets, infrastructure, lives, and property.
“The officers and men here today have been retrained and equipped with knowledge and skills in weapon handling through months of rigorous regimentation defined by global standards,” Dr. Odumosu stated.
The retraining effort has already borne fruit, with the Command making significant arrests for offenses such as vandalism, theft of public facilities, illegal mining, and unauthorized private guard operations.
Message to Graduating Officers
Addressing the 137 graduating officers, Dr. Odumosu expressed confidence in their readiness to serve the FCT community. He reminded them of their responsibilities, saying:
“To whom much is given, much is expected, they say. As you are being deployed today to your various places of assignment, remember not to leave your good orientation behind and always give your best, work smart, and think smart all the time. In the discharge of your legitimate duties, always remember the rules of engagement, be professional in handling your rifles, protect yourself, protect your rifles, protect lives and property.”
Appreciation for Instructors
Dr. Odumosu also commended the instructors, calling their efforts instrumental in shaping the graduating batch. “To our homegrown instructors, you have played a crucial role in sharpening the skills, providing knowledge, and instilling values necessary for these new batch of officers and men to succeed in their careers. I salute your courage, determination, and passion for the job.”
Commitment to Excellence
In his closing remarks, Dr. Odumosu assured the public of the NSCDC’s dedication to its core mandate. “Let me assure you that this Command will not relent in its commitment to delivering on our core mandates as a Corps. We will continue to justify the confidence reposed in us.”
The event, attended by royal fathers, distinguished guests, and members of the public, underscored the NSCDC’s proactive approach to tackling insecurity in the FCT.
