In a significant development, the Commandant General (CG) of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ahmed Abubakar Audi, PhD, mni, ofr, has officially introduced a Special Bodyguard/VIP Protection Unit within the Corps. The CG, in a formal statement released by the National Public Relations Officer (PRO) of NSCDC, CSC Babawale Zaid Afolabi, emphasized the importance of professionalism among unit members and issued a stern warning against any actions that could tarnish the image of the Corps.
The directive was given during the passing-out ceremony of more than 501 personnel selected from various state commands across the federation and other formations. These individuals successfully completed a rigorous proficiency training program held at the Corps’ National Headquarters in Abuja.
Representing the CG at the ceremony, Assistant Commandant General Augustine Obiekwe, in charge of Agro Rangers, elucidated that the primary responsibility of the newly established unit is to ensure the safety and security of individuals facing heightened threats due to their status, prominence, and influence. He underscored the crucial role of the VIP Protection Unit in minimizing risks to VIPs while safeguarding their privacy and enabling them to carry out their daily activities and engagements without hindrance.
During the event, Assistant Commandant General David Abi, responsible for Training and Manpower Development, delivered a welcome address. He urged the graduates to apply the knowledge acquired during their training, emphasizing that the Corps must meet and exceed expectations in its responsibilities.
Expressing gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for entrusting the Corps with the critical duty of protecting VIPs, Abi lauded the visionary leadership of the Commandant General. Under his guidance, the unit was established, and the first batch of trainees was inaugurated, aligning with the President’s vision to reposition the Corps for effective service delivery.
Furthermore, Abi detailed the proactive steps taken by the CG to actualize the Federal Government’s commitment. The CG approved the creation of the Special Bodyguard/VIP Protection Unit, designed to ensure proper coordination, command, and control training of selected personnel, thereby enhancing service delivery in accordance with global best practices.
As a testament to the significant contributions made during the establishment of the unit, the CG appointed Assistant Commandant of Corps Donald Anyor. His noteworthy contributions to the development of training manuals were acknowledged, cementing his role as the Head of the newly established unit.
