Comfort Yakubu
In an exclusive interview the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Abdullahi Gana Muhammadu, discusses critical national security issues, emphasizing the Corps’ commitment to addressing the herder/farmer clash.
Addressing concerns about the perceived duplication of duties between the Nigeria Police Force and NSCDC, Gana clarifies that the Corps operates internationally, with its headquarters in Geneva, and is the 66th member of the International Organization of Civil Defence. Established as a voluntary body in 1962 during the civil war, NSCDC became a full-fledged paramilitary outfit in 2003, with specific mandates, including the protection of critical national assets and disaster management.
Highlighting the NSCDC’s proactive approach, Gana mentions the creation of the Agro Rangers, a unit of 5000 armed officers dedicated to safeguarding agro-allied industries, farms, and farmers. He stresses the importance of the Corps’ collaborative relationship with other security agencies, emphasizing mutual support and intelligence sharing.
Discussing the growth of NSCDC from a volunteer-based organization to a prestigious paramilitary agency, Gana attributes this transformation to effective leadership. He underscores the commitment to training and retraining personnel, with over 14,700 officers and men attending seminars and workshops to enhance capacity and productivity.
Gana addresses the rise in reported rape cases and the NSCDC’s response. He details the establishment of the Citizens’ Integrity Unit, incorporating Anti-Rape, Anti-Human Trafficking, Gender, and Forensic units. The NSCDC has made arrests in various cases, demonstrating its determination to combat rape through both enforcement and awareness campaigns.
Providing insights into NSCDC’s personnel and expanding mandates, Gana reveals that the Corps has approximately 56,000 personnel. He emphasizes the increasing need for manpower due to the expanding scope of responsibilities, including deployments to the North East, school security, agro-rangers, and solid mineral units.
On the current security challenges in the country, Gana acknowledges the joint efforts of the police, army, and NSCDC in task forces. He expresses confidence that these collaborative initiatives will overcome the challenges over time.
Sharing his personal background, Gana recounts his educational journey and professional experience, highlighting his transition from banking to becoming the CG of the NSCDC. When asked about his greatest achievements, he modestly points to the creation of various units, including the Agro Rangers and the Anti-Rape Squad, as well as strategic deployments in response to critical events like the Dapchi and Chibok abductions.
Outside the uniform, Gana reveals his love for reading and local music, mentioning favorite artists like Mamman Chatta, Hajiya Lolo, and Hajiya Kulu Lafiagi.
