The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, has called on Chaplains from West African nations to heighten their focus on prayer for their respective countries.
According to National Public Relations Officer NSCDC NHQ Abuja CSC Babawale Zaid Afolabi, this directive was issued during a 5-day West African Chaplaincy Training hosted at the Corps’ National Headquarters in Abuja. The training, organized by the International Association of Evangelical Chaplains of the United States of America, was deemed crucial by the Commandant General, emphasizing the pivotal role of God, prayer, and synergy in ensuring smooth operational duties.
Represented by the Assistant Commandant General in charge of training and manpower development, David Abi fsi, the CG affirmed his commitment to supporting the Chaplaincy Unit across all formations of the Corps. He stressed the significance of spiritual and operational collaboration to enhance effective service delivery, stating, “I believe this training is germane, for just as the soul yearns for God, so does the country and the people yearn for peace and progress.”
Acknowledging the contributions of foreign partners and sister agencies, the CG expressed confidence that the Corps’ Chaplaincy would operate optimally and extend its outreach in spreading the Gospel. He urged participants to utilize the training judiciously, enhancing their performance as Chaplains in their respective commands, formations, agencies, and countries.
In his welcome address, the National Chaplain of the NSCDC, ACC John Paul JP, commended the CG for his transformative agenda, particularly in revitalizing the Chaplaincy Unit. He highlighted the establishment of chaplaincies in all 36 state Commands and the FCT, along with the training and commissioning of over 40 chaplains, emphasizing their role in the spiritual welfare of the Corps’ staff and the nation’s leadership.
Colonel Ron Huggler (Rtd), Director of the International Association of Evangelical Chaplain, conveyed his delight at being in Nigeria and contributing to knowledge transfer. He expressed optimism that the officers, after the training, would be better equipped to serve the people.
Other dignitaries present and delivering goodwill messages included Air Commodore DB Gani, Director Chaplaincy, Protestant, Nigerian Airforce, and CRS Apata, the National President of Paramilitary Chaplaincy.
Participants for the training were drawn from Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria.
