The Oyo State Commandant of Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) Dr. Michael Akintayo Adaralewa has assured the people of the state of effective security in the year 2024.
The assurance was contained in his new year message to the people of the state saying; “We are proud of our achievements in 2023, but we are not resting on our laurels, we are determined to make 2024 a more secured and peaceful year for the people of Oyo State.
“We will continue to collaborate with other security agencies and the state government, under the leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde to ensure that no stone is left unturned in our quest to safeguard lives and property in the state.”
Dr Adaralewa said the year 2023 saw the state command of NSCDC rise to the occasion on multiple fronts adding that proactive approach to crime prevention, yielded notable results, including the apprehension of suspected criminals, the disruption of criminal activities, and the recovery of stolen properties.
According to him, their dedication to community policing fostered closer ties with residents, empowering them to become active participants in their own security, saying, “our swift response to disasters and emergencies ensured the safety and well-being of countless individuals during challenging times.
“As we embark on a new chapter, the NSCDC Oyo State Command remains unwavering in its resolve. We have implemented a multi-pronged approach to bolster security across the state.
“On enhanced patrols, Our counter-terrorism unit will amplify their presence in high-crime areas and vulnerable communities, deterring criminal activity and ensuring the safety of residents.
On Intelligence Gathering: We are improving on our intelligence gathering techniques to stay ahead of evolving threats and proactively address security concerns.
Critical Infrastructure Protection: Vigilant surveillance will be maintained around critical assets and infrastructure, safeguarding the backbone of our state’s economy and well-being.
“Safeguarding Schools: The commencement and operation of the State Safe School Response Coordination Centre (SSSRCC) will prioritize the safety of our students, implementing measures to monitor, coordinate, and forestall any potential attacks on educational institutions.
“Peaceful Conflict Resolution: Recognizing the importance of fostering harmony, we will leverage Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) practices to address conflicts peacefully and prevent them from escalating into security threats.
“Religious Sites Safeguarded: Deployment of personnel to religious houses will deter potential attacks and ensure the safety of worshippers during religious services and gatherings.
“Inter-Agency Collaboration: We will continue to strengthen our partnerships with other security agencies, conducting joint operations and sharing intelligence to maximize our collective effectiveness.
Empowering the Agro-Rangers: “Our Agro-Ranger unit will be further empowered to effectively secure remote agricultural communities, protecting farmers and ensuring food security for the state.
“Public Awareness: We will continue to engage the public through awareness campaigns, equipping residents with crime prevention tips and encouraging them to report suspicious activity to the NSCDC or other security agencies.
To stay ahead of the evolving security landscape, the NSCDC Oyo State Command recognizes the importance of continuous training and capacity building for its officers. We will prioritize programs that hone their skills, enhance their knowledge, and equip them with the tools necessary to effectively safeguard the state.
“We firmly believe that community engagement is the cornerstone of a secure society. We will continue to strengthen our partnerships with community leaders, vigilante groups, artisans, public and private institutions and the general public, fostering an environment of trust and collaboration. We encourage residents to actively participate in crime prevention efforts by reporting suspicious activity and partnering with the NSCDC to build a safer Oyo State for all.
“As we stand united in this pursuit of security, we acknowledge the vital role played by other security agencies, government bodies, and the public. We are committed to working in tandem, leaving no stone unturned in our quest to create a safe and secure environment for all residents of Oyo State.
“We are committed to working with the people of the state to create a safe and secured environment for everyone, saying, the “We urge the public to cooperate with us and to report any suspicious activities or crimes to the NSCDC or other security agencies.”
Dr Adaralewa said as dawn breaks on the new year, the Command, stands resolute in its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of residents, building upon the successes of 2023.
“We enter 2024 with a revitalized focus and a comprehensive arsenal of strategies to deter crime, safeguard lives, and foster a peaceful environment for all.
