By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has reaffirmed its critical role in Nigeria’s security architecture, as it commenced a two-day strategic training programme aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, research capacity, and digital transformation across the Service.
According to an official signed statement by the National Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Babawale Afolabi, the training focused on the implementation of operational deliverables and research methodology in line with the Federal Government’s priorities.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, described the Corps as occupying a unique and indispensable position within the nation’s security framework.
Professor Audi highlighted the NSCDC’s statutory responsibilities, which include the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure, disaster management, intelligence gathering, and community engagement, stressing that the evolving security landscape requires innovative and technology-driven approaches.
He explained that the training programme was designed to promote the adoption of research methodology and digitalisation as strategic tools for achieving the Corps’ operational objectives and improving service delivery.
According to the Commandant General, the initiative reflects the management’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity through innovation, evidence-based decision-making, and the integration of modern technology into operational processes.
He emphasized that contemporary security challenges demand analytical thinking and problem-solving skills beyond traditional field operations, urging personnel to develop competencies in research, data analysis, and strategic planning.
Professor Audi further stressed that the success of the programme would be measured by tangible improvements in operational performance and service delivery across all formations of the Corps.
Earlier, the Commandant in charge of Planning, Research and Statistics, Commandant Peter Okloho, reminded participants that the Federal Government evaluates the NSCDC based on its statutory mandates and operational deliverables. He charged officers to demonstrate professionalism and apply the knowledge gained from the training to improve reporting standards and operational outcomes.
Also speaking, the Head of the Critical Thinking, Research and Innovation Unit (CTRIU), Dr. Ogunshola Folashade, underscored the importance of combining field expertise with critical thinking in addressing contemporary security challenges.
She explained that the workshop would cover key areas including implementation strategies for operational deliverables, research methodology, strategic communication, advanced report writing, and institutional best practices.
A major highlight of the event was the induction and administration of the Oath of Allegiance to newly appointed CRTI Desk Officers. The ceremony was conducted by the NSCDC Head of Legal, Commandant Bamiyo Akomolafe.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by ACC Gever Victor.
The intensive training programme attracted participants from all 36 state commands and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as representatives from various directorates, departments, and units at the NSCDC National Headquarters, underscoring the Corps’ determination to build a more professional, research-driven, and technology-enabled security institution.
