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NSCDC Deploys 4,000 personnel for Hitch-free Yuletide
NSCDC Deploys 4,000 personnel for Hitch-free Yuletide
By: Michael Mike
No less than 4,000 personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed in Abuja, the nation’s capital to ensure that the Yuletide is celebrated without breach of peace and security.
Speaking at the FCT Command headquarters, Abuja, the FCT Commandant of the Corps, Olusola Odumosu hinted that a robust operational order covering the entire Federal Capital Territorry had been released and being fully implemented.
He added that the Command’s Special Forces and various tactical units such as the Armed Squad, Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), Rapid Response team, Special Female Squad, Agro Rangers unit, Anti vandals unit, Crisis and disaster management unit, Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Explosive Unit (CBRNE) and the Intelligence Unit were mobilised for this assignment.
According to him, the Command took this proactive step to ensure effective security coverage due to the influx of visitors to the FCT, which may lead to increased social, economic and criminal activities during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Odumosu said: “The mission of this operation is to provide robust security for visitors, residents and the protection of Critical National Assets and public utilities in the FCT.
“While we expect the influx of visitors at this period, some residents may also travel out of the territory, leaving behind their houses, property and other belongings which are vulnerable to criminals.”
He also assured that all operational and intelligence assets at the disposal of the Command had been fully deployed to cover strategic locations and soft targets like places of worship, recreational centres, markets, shopping malls, parks, gardens and suspected flash points.
Odumosu directed all the Area Commanders and Divisional Officers (DOs) across the 6 Area Councils to maintain 24-hour high visibility day and night patrols around all the nooks and crannies of the Territory.
He expressed confidence that with the existing synergy and high sense of collaboration amongst various security agencies, peace and order shall be guaranteed and maintained during the yuletide period in the FCT.
“There will be no laxness in carrying out our expected responsibilities of safeguarding lives, property and maintaining peace and order.
“I have directed my officers and men to be extra vigilant and to discharge their statutory responsibility with utmost diligence.
“I assure the FCT residents of the readiness of the Command to promptly respond to distress and emergency situation.
“I also encourage members of the public to report any suspicious movement and objects to the nearest security post as security is everyone’s business,” the Commandant said.
He urged the FCT residents to be law abiding, obey rules and regulations, be vigilant and above all, cooperate with law enforcement and safety agencies in the interest of peace and progress of the FCT and the Nation as a whole.
Odumosu felicitates with the Hon Minister of FCT and residents on the yuletide season, wishing all christian faithfuls Merry Christmas and Nigerians a Prosperous 2024.
NSCDC Deploys 4,000 personnel for Hitch-free Yuletide
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
Tragedy in Plateau: Carbon monoxide exposure claims 37 lives at Wase mining site
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