FG reaffirms commitment to collaboration, disaster preparedness

The Federal Government (FG) has reiterated the importance of collaboration, disaster preparedness, and civil defence as the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) joined the global community in celebrating the 2025 International Civil Defence Day Organisation (ICDO).

Speaking at the event held at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja on Monday, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo,  Minister of Interior, emphasized the need for international cooperation and community engagement to tackle rising security threats and natural disasters.

Represented by Abdulmalik Jibrin, Secretary of the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), the Minister highlighted the critical role of civil defence in protecting lives, securing national infrastructure, and fostering resilience in communities.

Delivering the ICDO 2025 message themed “Civil Defence, Guarantee of Security for the Population,” Ahmed Abubakar Audi, Commandant General of NSCDC, underscored the need for stronger collaboration among security agencies and stakeholders to enhance public safety and national security.

He assured that the NSCDC remains committed to protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI). The Corps is also focused on strengthening physical security, increasing public sensitization, enhancing intelligence gathering, and improving crisis response efforts.

Dr. Audi also highlighted the achievements of key NSCDC security units. He noted that the Special Intelligence Squad (SIS) had arrested over 500 suspects and dismantled more than 350 illegal refineries. Additionally, the Special Female Squad had successfully prevented over 48 kidnapping attempts on schools, while the Mining Marshals had shut down more than 170 illegal mining sites across the country.

In line with the government’s commitment to personnel welfare, Audi presented cheques worth over N188 million to more than 20 next-of-kin of deceased officers as part of their insurance benefits.

Earlier, Zakari Ibrahim Ningi, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee,  noted that ICDO is observed globally every March 1 to raise awareness about the role of Civil Defence organizations in disaster prevention, crisis management, and intelligence gathering.

The ICDO 2025 celebration in Abuja featured parades and simulation exercises by NSCDC personnel, demonstrating the Corps’ core mandates in disaster response, public safety, and critical infrastructure protection.

While March 1 is the official date for ICDO globally, this year’s event was held on March 3, as the original date fell on a weekend.