ThBy Tunji Braimoh, Abuja

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has disclosed that its personnel in Sokoto State narrowly escaped death following an armed ambush by suspected criminals during an operational deployment in the state.

The Sokoto State Commandant of the Corps revealed that the operatives survived the attack largely due to the protection provided by an armoured operational vehicle, which shielded them from heavy gunfire and enabled them to withdraw safely from the scene.

According to the Commandant, the incident underscores the increasingly dangerous security environment in which NSCDC personnel operate daily while carrying out their constitutional mandate of protecting critical national assets and infrastructure, safeguarding lives and property, and supporting other security agencies in maintaining law and order.

He noted that the attack serves as a stark reminder of the threats confronting security personnel across the country, particularly in areas affected by banditry, armed criminality, and other violent activities. He emphasized that despite these challenges, the Corps remains committed to its responsibilities and will continue to strengthen its operational capabilities to effectively discharge its duties.

The Commandant further stressed the importance of equipping security personnel with modern operational tools, including armoured vehicles, protective gear, advanced communication gadgets, and intelligence-support equipment. According to him, such resources are critical to enhancing officer safety and improving the effectiveness of security operations in high-risk environments.

He also called for sustained collaboration among security agencies, local communities, and the media in the fight against insecurity. He noted that timely intelligence sharing, responsible reporting, and public support remain essential components of efforts to combat criminal elements and maintain peace across the country.

The NSCDC leadership reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens and national assets, assuring the public that the Corps would continue to deploy appropriate strategies and resources to confront emerging security threats. The Commandant commended the courage and professionalism displayed by the operatives involved in the incident and expressed gratitude that no lives were lost during the attack.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to security agencies, emphasizing that collective action and community participation are indispensable to achieving lasting security and stability in Nigeria.