The Federal Government has approved the construction of a permanent headquarters for the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Abia State. This was disclosed by the Commandant General of the Corps, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, during a courtesy visit to Governor Alex Otti at the Government House in Umuahia.

Prof. Audi, who was in the state as part of an operational tour to assess security operations and engage with key stakeholders, commended Governor Otti for his administration’s strong support to security agencies in the state. He noted that Abia was one of five states selected for the establishment of a new command structure under the Federal Government’s initiative to enhance the NSCDC’s presence and effectiveness nationwide.

“In recognition of your proactive response to security matters, I am pleased to inform you that the Honourable Minister has approved the construction of a befitting NSCDC command headquarters for Abia State,” the CG stated. “We kindly request your support in allocating a parcel of land within close proximity to the city to facilitate a command that will adequately serve the needs of our personnel and the people of Abia.”

Professor Audi thanked the Governor for his consistent support to the Corps, particularly in the areas of logistics, operational backing, vehicle donations, and inclusion of the NSCDC in the State’s joint security initiative, Operation Crush. He described Governor Otti as a security-conscious leader whose humility and accessibility are rare traits among public office holders.

In response, Governor Otti expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for the approval and pledged his administration’s cooperation in providing a suitable site for the command’s construction.

“I want to thank you for delivering this good news. I assure you that we have already approved in principle the allocation of land for the NSCDC headquarters. The Commissioner for Lands and Housing will meet with me before the end of the week to finalize the location,” the Governor said.

He emphasized that security remains the top priority of his administration, adding that no development initiative can thrive without safety. “You can build roads, schools, and hospitals, but if citizens cannot move around safely, all those efforts become unsustainable,” he warned.

Governor Otti also commended security agencies operating in the state for their vigilance and swift response to threats, revealing that earlier in the day, a joint operation had successfully dismantled a criminal hideout in Isiukwuato. “We are making Abia uncomfortable for criminals, and we will sustain the momentum,” he affirmed.

The Governor congratulated Prof. Audi on his appointment, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his intellect, competence, and leadership. He also thanked him for taking a keen interest in developments in the state and acknowledging the progress being made.

Governor Otti was joined in receiving the NSCDC delegation by key aides, including the Special Adviser on Security, Navy Commander MacDonald Uba (rtd), the Senior Special Assistant on Homeland Security and Fire Emergencies, Mr. Chukwunenye Alajemba, and the Chief Security Officer to the Governor, Sir Ken Nwosu.

Accompanying the NSCDC Commandant General were senior officers of the Corps, including the Abia State Commandant, Akinsola Aderemi A.; Deputy Commandants Emmanuel Ogoya (Operations), Ibrahim Yahaya (Rivers State Command), Assistant Commandant Okorie Chinomso E. (2i/c Operations, Abia Command), and CSC Uzoaru Prince (O/C Government House), among others.