Pix: Commandant Ibiloye

By Olowookere Johnson, Akure

In Ondo State today, one name that resonates strongly within the security community and among the general public is Commandant Oluyemi Joshua Ibiloye, the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). His stewardship has not only redefined security coordination in the state but has also earned him the rare distinction of being described as one of the “super ambassadors” of the NSCDC, a title conferred informally by stakeholders who see him as a model of dedication, discipline, and results-driven leadership.

When he assumed office in Ondo State, security analysts observed a surge in criminal activities ranging from vandalism of public utilities, illegal dealings in petroleum products, kidnapping, cultism, and increasing threats to schools and rural communities. What followed under his leadership was a deliberate, carefully coordinated plan of action that repositioned the NSCDC as a frontline agency in crime prevention, protection of critical assets, and community engagement.

Within a year of his tenure, the Ondo NSCDC Command, under Ibiloye’s leadership, recorded dozens of arrests of suspected vandals, kidnappers, illegal miners, and pipeline saboteurs. Data released by the command showed the recovery of several thousands of litres of illegally siphoned petroleum products and the dismantling of multiple syndicates that had threatened both the local economy and national assets. These operations were often carried out in synergy with the Nigerian Police, the Army, the DSS, and the Amotekun Corps, with Ibiloye credited for strengthening inter-agency collaboration in the state.

Stakeholders also highlight his commitment to school protection. Through the National Safe Schools Initiative, Ibiloye deployed trained operatives to guard public and private schools across vulnerable areas of the state, a move that was widely applauded by parents and education authorities. This proactive approach reduced incidents of vandalism and forestalled potential abduction attempts, ensuring that learning continued without fear.

Under his watch, public utilities such as power installations, oil pipelines, water facilities, and communication infrastructure enjoyed increased security cover. The NSCDC in Ondo was visible not only in surveillance but in rapid response, ensuring that saboteurs were either arrested or deterred. The consistent protection of these assets was singled out by government officials and energy stakeholders as a key contribution to Ondo’s relative stability.