In continuation of its sound blueprint of reforms, professionalism, regimentation and ethical reorientation of the entire workforce, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on Monday passed out 270 officers and men of course 10, basic weapon handling training at the NSCDC Headquarters in Abuja. 

The NSCDC's Commandant General (CG), Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, warned the newly trained personnel to avoid accidental discharge.

While congratulating the personnel for successfully completing the three months intensive training, he warned that anyone who mistakenly kills an innocent person would face the full wrath of the law.

“That you are trained to handle rifles does not mean you are trained to kill, except and unless otherwise.

“You can only kill somebody that wants to kill you in the battle field. You must observe all rules of engagement and if you violate it, you are on your own.

“Know that you have added another feat to your career because we said anyone who wears this uniform must learn and be taught how to handle rifles in case of eventuality,” he said.

According to the CG, training and retraining is an important way of instilling discipline and excellent service orientation in officers and men of the Corps.

“Over the years, training has not been well articulated until we introduced regimentation and realised that training needs to be prioritised according to the ACT governing the Corps,” he said.

Audi said that NSCDC being the lead agency in the protection of critical national asset and infrastructure is dedicated to providing security for all sectors of the economy.

“Assiduously commit yourselves to giving your best to the service of this nation by combating the menace of crime.

“There should be no compromise, be dedicated, and do your part to reduce and if possible eradicate oil theft. 

“We must arrest and apprehend oil thieves, go after them and arrest them because we have cautioned these criminals enough,” he said.

He further advised those who do not want to relent but had continued to attack pipelines across the nation to relocate because the Corps was committed to going after them.

On the issue of promotion, the NSCDC helmsman enjoined officers and men of the Corps to be patient as the Corps’ management will do its best to ensure the promotion of all that are due.

“We have a new government in place and we have seen President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s body language and pronouncements that he means well for this country.

“The Corps under my leadership has keyed into his principles and will continue to work towards ensuring peace and tranquillity,” he said.

He called on personnel to work in synergy with other security agencies, to ensure adequate security of lives and protection of critical assets in the country.