Use firearms responsibly, NSCDC FCT commandant urges new officers

The Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Capital Territory Command, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, on Wednesday, warned newly trained officers against misconduct or irresponsible use of weapons.

Addressing the 200 personnel who completed the Corps’ basic arms training at the command headquarters in Abuja, Odumosu emphasised that the right to bear arms comes with grave responsibility.

“This is just the beginning. The rifle is not merely a weapon; it is a responsibility. It must not be misused. Let discipline, integrity, and professionalism be your watchwords at all times.

“The NSCDC uniform you wear is not for harassment or intimidation. It is for service,” he cautioned.

Odumosu, who has led a series of training initiatives since assuming office, reiterated the importance of ethics and accountability in the use of firearms, especially as the Corps strengthens its armed squad.

“This third batch of graduands in basic weapons handling is a clear testament that we are not resting on our oars.

“The security landscape in the FCT is evolving, and so must we. The training of this batch is part of a carefully thought-out series of trainings designed to respond proactively to emerging security threats with precision, discipline, and professionalism.

We are not just passing out personnel who have just concluded basic weapon handling training. We are flagging off our ‘Emergency Response Team.’ Another crucial phase of our transformation journey,” the commandant noted.

The new Emergency Response Team, described by Odumosu as “specially trained and tactically equipped to intervene swiftly in high-risk situations,” will serve as a quick-response force within the FCT.

However, the commandant said that the unit must operate within strict professional boundaries.

Our vision is clear: to build a Corps that is not only responsive but also anticipatory in approach,” he said, noting that irresponsible firearm use would be inconsistent with the Corps’ mission and values.

He reminded the officers that with each advancement in training and equipment comes an expectation of higher discipline.

“Today’s event is not just another ceremonial gathering. It is a strong statement of our unwavering commitment to capacity building, operational readiness, and the overall enhancement of our internal security architecture within the Federal Capital Territory,” he said.

Odumosu added that the training initiative, which now includes a total of 472 personnel trained in weapons handling, is part of a long-term strategic vision to make the Corps more responsive to Nigeria’s complex security environment.

Let me reiterate without mincing words that this is not the end; it is a continuum. The first and second batches of 135 and 137 personnel, respectively, brought the total number of trained personnel in weapon handling to 472,” he stated.

He also expressed appreciation to the Commandant General of the Corps, Prof. Ahmed Audi and the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, for their continued support in equipping and strengthening the command.

He concluded with a stern but motivational call to the newly graduated officers, adding that “The path to greatness is often narrow and rugged, but the courageous never turn back. We are forging ahead. We are building capacity. We are breaking new ground.

“May the Almighty God reward you and continue to protect you as you serve your fatherland,” the commandant said.

The event was attended by senior security officials, traditional leaders, and representatives from the FCT Administration.