NSCDC Mobilizes 57,000 Personnel Nationwide to Guarantee Security During Easter Festivities

The NSCDC mobilizes 57,000 personnel across Nigeria to secure churches and public spaces for Easter, while the Defence Chief calls for responsible journalism.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 3, 2026, 4:14 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from THISDAYLIVE

Large-Scale Security Mobilization

In a proactive move to ensure a peaceful holiday period, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has announced the deployment of more than 57,000 personnel across the country. This large-scale mobilization, approved by Commandant-General Ahmed Audi, includes a mix of uniformed officers, specialized tactical units, and undercover intelligence operatives. The deployment covers all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), focusing on the prevention of security breaches during the Easter celebrations. By saturating public spaces with security presence, the Corps aims to deter criminal activities and provide a rapid response mechanism for any emerging threats.

Protection of Critical Assets and Public Spaces

A primary objective of this nationwide operation is the safeguarding of critical national assets and infrastructure, which often become targets during festive periods. NSCDC spokesperson Afolabi Babawale noted that high-traffic locations such as churches, shopping centers, parks, and recreational facilities will see a significantly heightened security presence. Undercover operatives have been specifically tasked with surveillance in these areas to identify and neutralize potential threats before they escalate. State Commandants and Zonal Commanders have been given full authority to coordinate these efforts within their jurisdictions to ensure the strategy is implemented effectively and seamlessly.

Collaboration and Community Responsibility

The NSCDC emphasized that its success depends on close collaboration with other security agencies and the cooperation of the general public. Babawale called on parents and guardians to play an active role in maintaining peace by guiding their children and wards against participating in activities that could disrupt public order. This community-focused approach is intended to augment the physical presence of the 57,000 officers, creating a multi-layered security net. The Corps' goal is to facilitate a "seamless and secure" Easter season where Nigerians can celebrate without fear of violence or harassment.