The establishment of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals has helped in combating illegal mining activities and preserving revenue.
Dr Abubakar Audi, the Commandant-General (CG) of the NSCDC, made this known when he presented Group Life Assurance benefits to families of those who lost their lives and thoseinjured from 2023 to 2024.
Audi, presented the cheques at an event to mark the International Civil Defence Organisation (ICDO) day in Abuja.
The ICDO is celebrated globally on March 1, yearly to raise awareness on the importance of civil defence preparedness, and to recognise the efforts of civil organisations worldwide.
Audi, used the occasion to remember the five personnel killed while protecting the national grid installations at Shiroro LGA of Niger state in November 2024.
He said that a research conducted by the corps revealed that there was a connection between illegal mining activities and banditry in the country.
He said that insecurity, especially kidnapping had reduced due to effective collaboration between security agencies.
Audi attributed many successes in the security architecture to use of non-kinetic approaches.
“Non-kinetic approach has yielded good results in the protection of schools, engagement of school authorities, parents, community leaders amongst others,” he said.
He added that through the Integrated Arrest Reporting System, the NSCDC has been able to swiftly respond to distress calls and information for prompt response, hence, resulting to positive results nationwide.
The CG said that the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has directed the corps to develop scientific reforms that would institutionalise the practice of Private Guard Companies (PGC).
The Secretary to the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, Immigration Service Board (CDCFIB), Abdulmalik Jubril said that the commemoration of the ICDO should serve as a remembrance on the need to promote civil engagement.
“ As we celebrate today, we are reminded of the importance of preparedness, prevention and quick response in the face of disaster.
“We are also reminded of the need for collective action, international cooperation and community engagement in promoting civil defense and disaster risk management and reduction.
Jubril said that past years security threats highlights the importance of civil defenders to protect human lives, promote sustainable development and protection of critical national assets.
In his remarks, the Inspector-General (IG) of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said that the police remained committed to upscale the existing collaboration between both organisations.
The IG, represented by Frank Mbah, Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Training and Development, opined that the success of any civil defence organisation depends on its ability to partner seamlessly with other security services.
“I reassure the corps of our commitment to collaborate in intelligence sharing, training and joint operations,” he said