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Stella Omona
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has completed an intensive two-week Pistol Management Training Course for 106 personnel, with a strong warning against negligence and accidental discharge of firearms.
The training, held at the Command’s Training and Obstacle Crossing Ground at the NSCDC FCT Headquarters in Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, was designed to enhance officers’ competence in firearm handling, operational efficiency, and adherence to professional standards in the discharge of their duties.
Addressing the graduating officers during the certificate presentation ceremony held as part of the Command’s Monday Muster Parade, the FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, stressed that professionalism and accountability must remain the guiding principles for all armed personnel of the Corps.
He declared that accidental discharge remains unacceptable within the NSCDC and would be treated as a serious breach of professional conduct.
“In the NSCDC, we do not condone accidental discharge. It is the height of professional misconduct, and we do not take such misconduct lightly. You must be accountable and ensure professionalism at all times,” Odumosu said.
The Commandant reminded the officers that the Corps’ mandate is centred on the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure, as well as the safeguarding of lives and property, urging them to exercise restraint and professionalism in all public engagements.
“The public is not our enemy. You must observe the rules of engagement, act with restraint, and remember that you are deployed to protect lives and infrastructure, not to intimidate citizens,” he stated.
Odumosu also underscored the importance of continuous training and capacity development in strengthening the operational effectiveness of the Corps.
He commended the Commandant General of the NSCDC for approving the training programme, noting that regular retraining of personnel remains critical to addressing emerging security challenges and maintaining high professional standards.
According to him, capacity building remains a key pillar in the Corps’ strategy for improving service delivery and enhancing public confidence in its operations.
The Commandant further charged the officers to remain disciplined, resilient, and committed to national service.
“You must continue to place the interest of the Corps and the nation above personal interests. Discipline, integrity, and dedication must define your conduct both on and off duty,” he told the participants.
During the intensive programme, the officers underwent practical and theoretical sessions covering weapon safety, marksmanship, tactical firearm handling, operational procedures, and the ethical use of force in line with global best practices and the NSCDC’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Security experts say such specialised training is increasingly important in modern law enforcement and security operations, particularly in ensuring that officers are adequately equipped to respond professionally to threats while minimizing risks to civilians.
The event culminated in the presentation of certificates to the 106 graduating officers, signifying their successful completion of the course and readiness to apply the knowledge acquired in the course of their duties.
The NSCDC FCT Command said the training forms part of ongoing efforts to build a highly professional workforce capable of effectively securing critical national assets and infrastructure while upholding the rights and safety of citizens.
