Civil Defence Rallies Environmental Vigilance, To Celebrate Day March 1

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) is mobilising Nigerians towards stronger environmental risk management as it joins the global community to commemorate the 2026 World Civil Defence Day (WCDD) with renewed commitment to civil protection and disaster mitigation.

The corps, in a statement signed by its national spokesman, ACC Afolabi Babawale in Abuja yesterday explained that March 1 is observed annually as World Civil Defence Day. He said the said date had been marked globally since 1973 to promote the safety of civil populations and strengthen disaster preparedness systems.

The statement  which further  stated that though this year’s celebration falls on a Sunday, said the corps had scheduled its grand finale for Friday, February 27, 2026 at its national headquarters parade ground in Abuja.

“With the 2026 theme, “Managing Environmental Risks for a Resilient and Sustainable Future,” the NSCDC says it is aligning its operations with global best practices as outlined by the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO).

The statement disclosed that the Commandant General, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, had approved a week-long line-up of activities to underscore the corps’ mandate of safeguarding lives, critical national assets and infrastructure, as well as strengthening disaster mitigation and management nationwide.

Activities include special Jumat and church services, inter-directorate sporting competitions, an anniversary lecture, inauguration of new projects, and a ceremonial grand finale expected to attract principal management officers and other dignitaries.

It said, “The CG has directed zonal commanders, commandants of Civil Defence Colleges, state commandants and heads of formations across the country to replicate the commemorative activities within their respective areas of responsibility, reinforcing nationwide participation.

The corps reiterated its unwavering determination to enhance environmental vigilance, deepen community resilience, and advance sustainable civil protection mechanisms across Nigeria.

‎The statement added that in consonance with this year’s team as directed by the International Civil Defence Organisation (ICDO), the NSCDC had expressed unwavering commitment and determination to the protection of lives and safeguarding of critical national

assets and infrastructure as well as disaster mitigation and management, among others.

‎The grand finale of the World Civil Defence Day 2026, according to the statement, will come up at the NSCDC National Headquarters Parade Ground in Abuja and will be hosted by the Commandant general with all principal management officers and dignitaries in attendance.