Civil Defence Unveils 5-Year Plan, Boosts Tech, Operational Capacity

In an effort to reshape Nigeria’s internal security landscape, the Commandant-General, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has launched a five-year strategic roadmap aimed at modernising the corps, enhancing professionalism and embedding cutting-edge technology in its operations.

Speaking to newsmen during a meeting with deputy commandant-generals, assistant-commandant generals, zonal and state commandants and other senior officers to mark the commencement of his second tenure, Professor Audi outlined a vision for operational excellence, innovation and responsiveness to Nigeria’s complex security challenges.

Reflecting on his first tenure, Audi highlighted landmark initiatives that expanded the corps’ operational scope and national presence. Programs such as the female strike force, safe school initiative, mining marshals and the special intelligence squad have strengthened security in critical sectors, earning NSCDC a reputation for strategic relevance and proactive intervention.

Audi emphasised that beyond operations,  the importance of staff welfare and institutional reforms were his priority, noting that improved morale, structured training, and career progression had fortified the corps’ human capital.

He underscored the urgent need to integrate technology across all operational dimensions, saying, “Modern security challenges demand smart, intelligence-led approaches. By adopting technology, we not only enhance efficiency but also reduce risk to personnel while improving our response to emerging threats.”

The NSCDC boss said it was in line with this vision that operational wears, surveillance gadgets and high-tech equipment were distributed to commands in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to ensure that officers were better equipped for field duties and rapid deployment in critical security operations.

Audi, who expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, acknowledged the federal government’s support for bolstering institutional capacity and advancing technological innovation within the corps.

He said, “Our focus in this second phase is unwavering: professionalism, discipline, accountability, and strengthening public confidence in our ability to safeguard national assets and critical infrastructure.

“This strategic engagement signals a new era for NSCDC, one rooted in intelligence, innovation, and operational excellence, positioning the corps as a key player in Nigeria’s security ecosystem.”