Int’l Civil Defence Day: Anambra NSCDC Restates Commitment to Public Safety, Lauds Commandant Maku’s Achievements 

The Anambra State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and properties of residents of the state.

NSCDC pledged to maintain security during emergencies, educate the public on safety measures and promote disaster preparedness.

The security agency made the commitment during the 2025 International Civil Defence Day celebration themed “Civil Defence; Guarantee of Security for Population”, held at the Command Headquarters in Awka on Saturday.

SC Okadigbo Edwin, Head, Media and Tactical Operations of the Command who disclosed this in a statement noted that the celebration highlights the importance of civil defence measures in safeguarding people and property from accidents, natural disasters, and crises.

Edwin said that the day serves as a reminder of the crucial role played by civil defence services in ensuring public safety and preparedness, explaining that the theme underscores the critical role of civil defence organizations in ensuring public safety.

He stressed the need for effective disaster management, community involvement, and proactive preparedness measures to protect people from potential hazards, noting that the theme also encourages governments and local authorities to strengthen emergency response systems and enhance public awareness of risk management strategies.

In his address, the State Commandant, Maku Olatunde pointed out that the NSCDC, like the rest of the world, celebrates the International Civil Defence World Day on March 1 every year to recognise the significant role of Civil Defence in protecting lives, and critical assets of the nation.

Olatunde mentioned that the event highlights the specialised role of the NSCDC in safeguarding the federal, states and local government assets, distinguishing it from other security agencies.

He revealed that the Corps has been very effective in handling civil unrest, monitoring of federal and state government facilities, especially oil pipelines and public places as well as registration and monitoring of private guards security companies.

Others include protection of schools through the safe school project, stoppage of illegal mining activities, and protection of agro allied industry among others.

He expressed gratitude to the Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi for his exceptional leadership in transforming the agency since assuming office.

He also thanked the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo and Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo for their operational support, which enabled him to achieve notable successes as the State Commandant.

On her part, the Deputy Commandant, Prominence Ukaobi lauded Olatunde’s leadership and highlighted his achievements as the 17th substantive State Commandant of Anambra NSCDC, stating that he made significant strides in transforming the security landscape of the state since assuming office.

Ukaobi mentioned that Olatunde’s leadership has been marked by a series of innovative initiatives, strategic partnerships, and operational successes that have repositioned the NSCDC as a formidable force in maintaining law and order.

Her words: “One of his earliest achievements was the successful hosting of his first management meeting, where he made a bold statement to transform the security landscape in Anambra State. This meeting set the tone for his administration, emphasizing the need for collaboration, innovation, and operational efficiency.

“He also embarked on familiarization visits to key stakeholders and sister security agencies, introducing his mission, seeking collaborative support, and fostering strong relationships.”

She disclosed that Commandant Olatunde’s commitment to discipline and professionalism is evident in his efforts to resuscitate the weekly parade, which had become lackluster.

“He revamped the parade, providing guidance and lectures to personnel on the proper way to conduct the parade. Additionally, he put an end to lateness and absence without official leave (AWOLS), leading by example with his punctuality to work. The welfare of personnel has also received significant attention under his leadership.

“He introduced Monthly Wage Awards, backed by cash incentives, to recognize and reward exceptional dedication to duty with several packages like sharing of office equipments and operational gadgets to all departments and units”

“The Civil Defence Officers’ Wives Association (CDOWA) was also reinvigorated, with the launch of the new rejigged CDOWA, which has galvanized officers’ wives towards the set objectives of the association,” the DCC remarked.

She further stated: “Commandant Maku has made significant strides in infrastructure development, renovating offices within the command to give them a modern look and constructing an additional office to accommodate various departments and units . He also successfully secured a new official residence for the state Commandant through the State Government.

“In addition to infrastructure development, Commandant Maku has demonstrated his commitment to operational efficiency. He oversaw the repair of grounded vehicles, revitalized the technical department, and acquired two refurbished additional vehicles from the state government. Moreso, he prioritized training and manpower development, recognizing its impact on operational efficiency. To achieve this, he collaborated with the Ministry of Education to organize sensitization programs, further enhancing the capabilities of the NSCDC personnel.”

Ukaobi acknowledged that the protection of critical national, state and local government assets and infrastructure has been the major focus for Commandant Maku saying, “He has ensured that all Critical National, State, and Local Government Assets and infrastructure are kept under surveillance and protected from vandalism.

“He has also collaborated with relevant stakeholders including, Ministry of Petroleum Resources and Solid Minerals, and the Federal Mines Officer in Awka to regulate mining activities, arrest illegal miners, and prevent revenue loss to the Federal and State Governments.”

The Anambra NSCDC boss was also commended by other personnel at the event that featured special prayers and thanksgiving for protection and the progress of the command, lectures, health talks and display of tactical simulations operations, among others.