The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ahmed Audi, has distributed an array of advanced operational equipment to state formation commanders, while warning against indiscipline among personnel.

According to a statement by the agency’s spokesperson, Afolabi Babawale, on Friday, the distribution took place during the agency’s annual strategic meeting at the NSCDC national headquarters in Abuja.

The statement noted that Audi “emphasised that the corps will not tolerate any act of indiscipline, with severe sanctions awaiting any officer found wanting.”

Addressing senior officers and state commanders, Audi thanked President Bola Tinubu for renewing his tenure as Commandant General, describing the renewal as a mandate to intensify operational efforts.

He urged officers to uphold best practices and embrace discipline with unwavering diligence.

“He emphasised that the corps is entering a new strategic phase in which conduct must reflect the highest standards of professionalism, reiterating the administration’s commitment to rewarding loyalty, resilience, and dedication to duty,” the statement read.

Audi highlighted notable progress under his leadership, particularly in resolving long-standing welfare issues that had previously dampened morale.

Since assuming office, his administration has successfully addressed unpaid salary arrears and stalled promotions, thereby enhancing personnel motivation and operational efficiency across formations.

He also outlined key operational achievements, particularly in critical infrastructure protection and the fight against economic sabotage.

According to the CG, the corps has dismantled over 400 illegal refineries, effected numerous arrests, and secured successful prosecutions against smugglers and illegal miners, reinforcing its role as a lead agency in safeguarding Nigeria’s critical assets and natural resources.

A highlight of the event was the unveiling and distribution of a comprehensive suite of modern operational tools intended to enhance surveillance, response times, and officer safety.

Audi emphasised that the deployment of technology is central to the corps’ strategy for combating insecurity, banditry, illegal mining, and logging.

He stated, “The equipment distributed to each state formation includes three drones for aerial monitoring; operational backpacks with mini tablets, solar chargers, GPS trackers, and situation room connectivity packs for real-time monitoring of personnel; 100 bulletproof vests, 100 helmets, 200 pairs of combat boots, 100 pairs of knee and ankle guards; 20 operational night-vision goggles; 200 sets each of agro-ranger, blue conventional, and white uniforms; 200 berets with belts; 50 shocking batons; 20 chain cutters; torchlight batons; five pen recorders; 20 body cameras; 10 binoculars; water dispensers; and official copies of the NSCDC Code of Conduct, Act, and Standard Operating Procedure manuals.”

Audi instructed that the equipment is strictly for official corps duties, warning that any misuse would attract sanctions.

“These resources are provided to ensure the smooth delivery of duties. Any officer found circumventing this directive will be dealt with decisively,” he said.

The CG further highlighted the corps’ renewed focus on capacity building and training, stressing that professionalism, integrity, and adherence to operational mandates remain non-negotiable. He also underscored the importance of intelligence sharing and inter-agency collaboration, pledging to strengthen coordinated efforts with sister security agencies to enhance national security outcomes.

PUNCH Online reports that the strategic meeting, which drew formation heads from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, also served as a platform to review the corps’ operational blueprint for the year, with particular emphasis on aligning activities with national security objectives and ensuring that the newly deployed equipment translates into tangible results in the fight against economic sabotage and infrastructure vandalism.

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The Lagos State Government has disbursed a total of N701,054,344.57 to 232 families of public servants who died in active service.

The beneficiaries gathered in Ikeja on Friday for the presentation of cheques for insurance death benefits to dependents of the deceased workers.

The event, organised by the Ministry of Finance in collaboration with LASACO Assurance and a consortium of underwriters and bankers, saw some families receive up to N15m.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Commissioner for Finance, Abayomi Oluyomi, commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for prioritising the welfare of public servants and their families.

“Let me begin by sincerely appreciating our governor for his consistent support for workers and their families and for championing policies that put people at the centre of government decisions,” he said.

“Under his leadership, staff welfare is not just a policy—it is something we see and feel in practical ways, like today.”

Oluyomi described the occasion as both painful and significant, noting that while it marked the loss of valued colleagues, it also fulfilled a promise to their loved ones.

“Today is both a painful and an important day—painful because we remember husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, and friends who are no longer with us; important because we are here to keep a promise made to them and to you.

“On behalf of the Lagos State Government and the Ministry of Finance, I extend my deepest condolences to all 232 families present. No amount of money can replace the love, presence, and guidance of those you have lost.

“The Lagos State Insurance Scheme was put in place so that when the unexpected happens, families are not left alone. The cheques presented today are not just figures—they represent recognition of the years of loyal service your loved ones gave to the state.

“They are also a clear message that the government stands with you in this difficult time. We hope that these benefits will ease immediate pressures, help you stabilise, and support the dreams your loved ones had for their families,” he said.

He assured serving public officers of the administration’s continued commitment to their welfare, pledging transparency and prompt processing of all entitlements.

“When we ask you to give your best in service to Lagos, it is because we are equally committed to standing by you and your families,” he added.

Oluyomi also urged beneficiaries to make prudent use of the funds.

“Please see this support as a seed to help you rebuild—whether by paying school fees, supporting a small business, clearing debts, or providing stability at home. In doing so, you honour the sacrifices your loved ones made,” he told the beneficiaries.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Mahmud Alao, said the payment underscored the government’s commitment to workers’ welfare.

“Today’s gathering is both solemn and significant. We are here to honour the memory of our departed colleagues who served with dedication, loyalty, and integrity, and to fulfil a promise made to them and to their families,” he said.

He noted that beyond their official roles, the deceased were integral members of families and communities whose contributions to the state would not be forgotten.

“The insurance scheme under which these benefits are being paid was designed to ensure that, even in death, employees’ families are not left without support. It is a practical demonstration of the government’s responsibility and compassion.

“The payment of these benefits is not merely a statutory obligation—it is a moral commitment. While no financial compensation can replace your loved ones, we hope this support will provide some relief and stability during this difficult time,” he said.

Alao reaffirmed that the administration would continue to strengthen welfare policies and ensure transparency in the management of staff entitlements.

“To the beneficiaries, please accept this gesture as a symbol of our shared responsibility and solidarity. May it help ease your burdens and support your future aspirations,” he added.

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The Nigerian Army on Thursday pulled out 18 senior officers of the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport following their retirement after 35 years of meritorious service.

The colourful pulling-out parade marked the conclusion of a three-day conference held in Benin, the Edo capital.

The conference has as theme “Optimising Supply and Transport Capabilities Towards Providing Effective Service Delivery to NA Operations in All Missions”.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Corps Commander, Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport, Maj.-Gen. Danjuma Shagaya, said the retired officers comprised four Major Generals and 14 Brigadier Generals.

Shagaya noted that the officers had served the nation with dedication from the time of their commissioning until retirement.

He described the event as both a celebration and recognition of their contributions.

“It is a joyous moment for the Corps of Supply and Transport, as current and former Corps Commanders are present to honour and celebrate these distinguished officers,” he said.

He explained that the pulling-out ceremony was a longstanding military tradition that provided an opportunity to celebrate years of service and sacrifice.

The corps commander also commended the Chief of Army Staff, for recognising the sacrifices and contributions of the retired officers by sending a representative to grace the occasion.

Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Maj.-Gen. Olaniyi Dare, said their careers spanned several decades, during which they served the Nigerian Army in various operational, command, and staff roles.

According to him, the Corps of Supply and Transport plays a central and indispensable role in the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army.

“We were entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that soldiers deployed across various theatres of operation are adequately sustained.”

Dare added that during training, peace support missions, or internal security operations within and outside the country, the corps remained committed to delivering reliable and efficient logistics support.

“As we transition into retirement, we recognise that while we may be leaving active service, our commitment to the ideals and values of the Nigerian Army remains steadfast.

“We will continue to serve as ambassadors of the corps and remain available to contribute our experience and knowledge whenever we are called upon,” he said.

He described the ceremony as symbolic, noting that beyond its significance, it offered a moment to reflect on decades of service, sacrifice, and commitment to national defence.

He also paid tribute to the families of the retired officers, acknowledging the critical role.

“Military life often demands long separations, personal sacrifices, and constant movement.

“Their understanding, patience, and encouragement made it possible for us to fulfil our duties with dedication,” he said.

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