… Ogun Command says annual capacity building prepares officers for emergencies
… Experts urge discipline, accountability and public cooperation to curb insecurity
The Ogun State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has organised its annual capacity training for the Armed Squad Unit, with a focus on managing stress, assessing threats and improving rapid response during security operations.
Speaking at the permanent site of the command in Owu Dekudu Village, off Kobape Road, Abeokuta, the State Commandant, Dr Remi Omolade Ekundayo, said the training is a continuous exercise designed to keep armed personnel updated on modern security tools and procedures.
She explained that the Armed Squad is a sensitive unit responsible for emergency operations and protection of dignitaries, adding that the officers must maintain high professional standards.
“This capacity training is not just starting. It has been a year-to-year training for all armed men. The armbearing unit is very sensitive and officers need to be trained on new arms that come into the security architecture from time to time. The armed unit is called for emergencies and to provide security for VIPs. They must be professionals and the training continues,” she said.
Ekundayo noted that the theme of this year’s programme reflects current challenges in the security environment, highlighting stress, threats and the need for effective response strategies.
On measures to sustain peace in Ogun State, the commandant said more than 1,000 additional officers have been deployed across the state, in collaboration with other security agencies.
“At every checkpoint, we have been working and we are still working, even when there is no festive season, to ensure peace and stability,” she added.
The event, themed “Peak Performance Under Pressure: Stress Management, Threat Assessment and Rapid Response for Security Operatives,” featured lectures delivered by security and public administration experts.
CSP Kalejaye Victor of the Nigeria Police Force spoke on stress management among law enforcement agencies, while Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Mr Oyeneye Oyelaja, discussed the socio-economic impact of insecurity on citizens and the role of law enforcement in restoring hope.
Dr Ogundeji Moses Adegbola examined the relationship between citizens and security practitioners and the importance of accountability.
Dignitaries at the event included AIG Olusola Subair, Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Security; Professor A. O. Adeogun, Acting Vice Chancellor, Tai Solarin Federal University of Education; Adebowale Oyejola Oyeneye mni, Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Public Service Reforms; Ogundeji Moses Adegbola, Chief Security Officer, TASFUED; Hon Wasiu Anishere, Deputy Leader, House, Ewekoro Local Government; ACG M. O. Akinbo, Zone 1 Headquarters, represented by Commandant Akeem Adeyinka; ACG N. O. Akintelure, Provost, NSCDC CSM, represented by DCC Gabriel Akanbi; Professor R. O. Kareem, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Crescent University Abeokuta, representing Vice Chancellor Professor Ibrahim Gbajabiamila; Prophet Adewale Akande Adeola (Baba Testimony); Mrs Odushola of Ollas Cafe; Mr Sennom Ajayi of Memorable Event; Mr Sunday Ogidan, Chief Security Officer to Senator Gbenga Daniel; Raheem Kamilu, Head of Department, Economics, Crescent University Abeokuta; and Prince Abdulwasiu Agunbiade, Chairman, Tricycle Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria.
Contributing to discussions, High Chief Oladimeji Lasile said poverty, idleness and unemployment were fuelling insecurity, alongside corruption and lack of discipline.
“For banditry to be eliminated, we must address these issues. Insecurity will halt when we have good, motivated and well-equipped men at work,” he said, urging sincere governance and effective justice systems.
Prophet Adeola Akande, also known as Baba Testimony, stressed the role of the family in preventing crime, urging parents to discipline their children early.
“Insecurity starts from the home. Parenting has fallen short, and many things have gone wrong. That is the foundation of insecurity,” he said, calling for sustained public sensitisation on values and discipline.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Crescent University, Professor Rasaki Abdul-Kareem, described the workshop as timely, saying security agencies must be well-equipped, alert and supported by the media and experts.
Security stakeholders at the forum agreed that training, cooperation and accountability remain key to strengthening public safety across Ogun State
