The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC Makurdi command has trained four hundred and three (403) officers.
Speaking Thursday in Makurdi during the passing out parade of course 2 and 3 on basic training on weapon handling, internal security and counter terrorism/insurgency of officers and men of NSCDC, Benue State Command Makurdi, Governor Samuel Ortom represented by his Special Adviser on Security, Colonel Paul Hemba (rtd) described the Corps as a very important pillar of the security architecture, not just in Benue State but in the entire country.
Governor Ortom assured of his administration’s continued support to the NSCDC in training, welfare and operations.
“We must commend the efforts of the Civil Defence especially the Agro Rangers who have been working shoulder to shoulder with the police and military in curbing cases of kidnapping, cattle rustling, armed robbery, cultism and activities of killer Herdsmen”, the Governor said.
He commended the the high morale, Professionalism and physical fitness exhibited by the graduands, saying Benue people would sleep with their eyes closed.
In a goodwill message, Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Titus Uba who spoke on behalf of the Assembly said, the training was germane and timely having come at a time when the state was faced with insurgency and all forms of insecurity.
“Whatever is required of the Benue State House of Assembly to give the Civil Defence in the state more updated training, Benue State House of Assembly is ready”, Uba assured.
Earlier in a welcome address, State Commandant of NSCDC Makurdi, Philip Anuku Okoh said,” this basic training on weapon handling and counter terrorism/insurgency training of our officers and men was the crystallization of the vision my dynamic and indefatigable Commandant General to resuscitate, revamp, rejig, restructure and restore the functions and glory of NSCDC.
“This crop of officers and men being hatched into the store house of our arsenal, we will become formidable in handling and tackling various insecurity challenges in the State as we align with divine mechanizations.
“The essence of this training is assent in balancing the equation of the politics and Economics of arms and ammunition the hand and to reposition the NSCDC to deliver optimally in her function of maintaining law and order, the protection of critical National Assets and Infrastructures, equipping our specialized Agro Rangers Force in tackling the menace of herders/farmers conflict/clashes, stop cattle rustling, mediation and restoration of peace in areas of land disputes and ensuring cult free society.
“Today, four hundred and three (403) highly trained officers are passing out to be deployed to ensure greater “PEACE” in the land. Thank God for the life of our CG who identify the ability in me gave me the golden opportunity to stir the ship of the Corps in the State”, Comdt Okoh said.
He appreciated the Benue State Government under Governor Samuel Ortom for the support given NSCDC.
The Commandant who tasked the graduands on behavioural transformation reminded them that
“learning can only be said to have taken place when there is a change in behaviour(actions) positively. Remain disciplined and put into practice all you have learnt both in character and in musketry. Never forget to discharge your duties with integrity and remain Civil in nature bearing in mind that you were once a Civilian and will soon retire to civilian life too
“Remember, “Whatever a man sows, he will also reap” he advised.
In his Good will message, state Commissioner of police, Akingbola Olatunji represented by the officer 3rd in command operations, SA Afegbai, said Civil Defence contributed to the peace being enjoyed at Ityo-Mu village that was engulfed by crisis in recent time.
The CP charged the Corps members to protect themselves to be able to protect others. He also urged those who will be handling arms to be careful with the rifle and should be civil in their operations with regards to fundamental human rights and rules of engagement.
Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, Nigeria Air Force Makurdi who was represented by Group Captain A. A Mohammed expressesed confidence in the ability of the graduands to defend the state and urged them be alert at all times and avoid mobile phone distraction while on duty.
“I have seen your demonstration of readiness, capability and willingness to serve the nation and improve security of this state,” Mohammed said.
In his royal words, Tor Lobi 1 ( First class chief), HRH Moses Anagende acknowledged the role of Civil Defence in protecting lives and property of Benue people. He therefore assured of cooperation and support from traditional institution and the entire people of the state towards the success of NSCDC in the fight against crime.
