The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) is facing criticism for allegedly failing to provide its officers with adequate training and equipment, raising concerns about their readiness to respond to security threats.
Allegations against Commandant-General Ahmed Abubakar Audi have mounted, with claims that funds earmarked yearly for officer training at various levels are being diverted for personal aggrandizement and in pursuit of his tenure elongation.
Mr. Audi, who was appointed on February 18, 2021, by former President Muhammadu Buhari, is set to retire on February 18, 2026, after completing his statutory five-year term. However, sources in Aso Rock, Nigeria’s seat of power, told Standard Daily Press that Abubakar Audi has been lobbying the presidency—reportedly bringing in traditional rulers from Nasarawa State—to persuade President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to extend his tenure for another five years.
Training and Retraining Concerns
Sources allege that NSCDC officers, particularly those licensed to bear arms, have not received regular training and retraining—an essential requirement for maintaining proficiency in firearms handling. Specifically, it is claimed that armed officers have not been taken to shooting ranges every three months, as standard practice requires, to sharpen their gun-handling and shooting techniques.
Audi should be charged for murder over abuse of power
The meaning, functions, and roles of the NSCDC by the laws that established it is different from the uses Abubakar Audi is putting it.
The primary duties of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) are to protect lives and property, safeguard critical infrastructure from vandalism (like pipelines), maintain peace and order, and provide community support during emergencies by assisting the civil population, rescuing civilians, and managing shelters. The Corps also supervises private guard companies, assists other security agencies with crime prevention, and conducts surveillance on government infrastructure.
“Ahmed Abubaker Audi should be charged for murder for abuse of power because the NSCDC Corps killed by kidnappers were not killed at the scene of critical infrastructure like pipelines. Because of his greed, lost for power and money, Audi deliberately put the innocent and untrained personnel in a harm way. He should be sacked by Buhari and face the law,” Comrade Yusuf Idris charged.
“Since I joined the NSCDC 22 years ago, I have never been retrained for a refresher course, which is a normal requirement for genuine security work. But the CG is focused on needless propaganda to remain in office, instead of addressing his responsibilities,” said a corps officer who identified himself simply as Mr. Usman in Abuja.
Equipment Shortfalls
In addition to training gaps, there are allegations that NSCDC officers are not adequately equipped to perform their duties. Reported shortcomings include:
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Insufficient Body Armor and Helmets: Officers are allegedly not consistently provided with protective gear, exposing them to heightened risks.
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Outdated Weapons and Limited Ammunition: Many officers are said to rely on obsolete firearms with scarce ammunition, limiting their ability to effectively counter security threats.
Impact on Officer Readiness
The lack of regular training and inadequate equipment has reportedly left officers ill-prepared and complacent. Some have been spotted engaging in casual conversations or using their phones while on duty, rather than maintaining vigilance against potential threats.
Repositioning the NSCDC
To restore effectiveness, experts recommend the following measures:
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Regular Training and Retraining: Officers should undergo frequent refresher courses to maintain proficiency in firearm use and security operations.
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Modern Equipment and Adequate Ammunition: The Corps must be equipped with up-to-date weapons, sufficient ammunition, and protective gear.
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Improved Vigilance and Discipline: Officers should be trained and monitored to ensure alertness and prompt response to threats at all times.
By implementing these reforms, the NSCDC can rebuild credibility, enhance officer readiness, and contribute more effectively to Nigeria’s overall security architecture.
