The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, observed the commemoration of the 2024 World Civil Defence Day today, Friday, 1st March, 2024, at the State Command Headquarters, Agodi, Ibadan, with great enthusiasm and pride. The event, which coincided with the passing out parade of the 2022 trainees after six months of rigorous training, was held at a grand ceremony filled with various activities.
The World Civil Defence Day, organized annually by the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO), is celebrated on March 1st of every year. This year’s theme, “Honor Heroes and Promote Safety Skills,” highlights the importance of recognizing the selfless dedication and bravery exhibited by the officers and men of Civil Defence all over the world.
The ceremony commenced with a parade, followed by the stripling and assembling of rifles, a thrilling tug of war competition, among other engaging activities.
The Special Guest of Honour, His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, was represented by Mr Fatai Owoseni, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security. In his address, the Governor expressed his deep appreciation for the efforts of all the security agencies, particularly the NSCDC, in providing security within the state. He emphasized that security remains a top priority as it is the bedrock for growth and development.
The Governor extended his congratulations to the NSCDC on the occasion of the World Civil Defence Day and commended the 2022 trainees for successfully completing their training. He emphasized that training is a continuous process throughout their service years, as every day in security service is a training day. He urged them to be prepared for greater challenges and emphasized the need to be proactive in tackling crime, criminality, and criminals.
Commandant Augustine Padonu, the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Oyo State Command, expressed his gratitude to the Governor of Oyo State for his exceptional support, which has played a pivotal role in strengthening the capacity of the NSCDC in the state. He also acknowledged the efforts of Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, in ensuring that the NSCDC remains a formidable security outfit in Nigeria and across the world. Furthermore, he commended the exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication of Dr Ahmed Audi, mni, OFR, the Commandant General of the NSCDC.
Commandant Padonu reiterated the significance of this year’s theme, emphasizing the need for selfless dedication and bravery in the line of duty. He called upon the 2022 graduants to uphold the honour and integrity of the Corps and to carry out their duties with utmost dedication and professionalism.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of service commanders from various security agencies in the state, including the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Air force, the Nigeria Police, and the Department of State Services, among others. Their collective presence underscored the importance of collaboration and synergy among security agencies in ensuring the safety and well-being of the citizens.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Oyo State Command, remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, promoting safety skills, and fostering an environment of security and peace within the state. The commemoration of the 2024 World Civil Defence Day and the passing out parade of the 2022 trainees serve as a testament to the Corps’ dedication to its mission.
