Michael Olugbode in Abuja

In order to combat security challenges in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has launched ‘The Crack Squad’ of highly trained and skilled personnel.

The Corps has also graduated 200 personnel from an eight-week training on basic arms and weapons handling training Course 3.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Abuja, the NSCDC Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, noted that the present graduation brought to 472 personnel of the Command who were recently trained in basic arms and weapons handling.

Odumosu, in his address, said training of his personnel on basic arms and weapons handling, was a strong statement of the command’s unwavering commitment to capacity building, operational readiness and the overall enhancement of the Corps’ internal security architecture within the Federal Capital Territory.

He noted that: “This third batch of graduands in Basic Arms and Weapons handling is a clear testament that we are not resting on our oars; the security landscaping in the FCT is evolving and so must we.”

Odumosu said the training is part of a carefully thought-out series designed to respond proactively to emerging security threats, stating that it is not the end, it is a continuum.

He added that “the FCT Command under my leadership has undertaken several strategic training programmes, ranging from the first and second batches of weapons handling courses to workshops and seminars on intelligence gathering, to advanced investigation techniques, capacity building on duties of provost personnel to basic training in sign language.”

He further disclosed that  the trainings cut across Area Commands and Divisions as part of a broader vision to mould a responsive versatile, intelligent and elite Corps that can engage with the public in every corner of society.

Odumosu said: “Today, we are not just passing out personnel who just concluded basic Arms and Weapons Handling training, we are flagging off ‘The Crack Squad’, another crucial phase of our transformation journey.”

The crack squad, according to the FCT boss, is an elite team and will serve as a quick response unit, specially trained and tactically equipped to intervene swiftly in high- risk situations.

He lauded the Commandant-General, Dr. Ahmed Audi, for his steadfast support, encouragement and visionary guidance to the FCT Command.

In his goodwill message, the Commander, Guards Brigade, Brig. Gen. Adebisi Onasanya, lauded the resilience and progression in the performance of the graduands, adding that he is proud of the performance of the NSCDC officers at the various joint task force operations with other security agencies, a proof that the FCT Command pays attention to excellent.

Also, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Adewale, commended the gallantry of the trainees, and urged them to ensure they imbibe the culture and go out there to carry out their responsibilities efficiently.

The representative of the FCT Minister and the Director of Security FCTA, Mr. Olubiyi Sunday, congratulated the participants, describing them as high flier and assured them that the FCT Administration would continue to partner the Command to ensure that FCT residents sleep with their two eyes closed.

Highlights of the occasion was the presentation of gifts to best shooters, best strapping and assembling officer, best female instructors, best disciplined trainees and the cutting of a cake.

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