NSCDC Has Become Indispensable Agency In Nigeria’s Peace-building Architecture- Dr Abiola

The role of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in sustaining peace and security across Nigeria came into focus on Monday the Osun State Command of the Corps hosted this year’s commemoration of the International Day of Peace.

The event, held at ADOLAK International Hotel, Osogbo, featured a presentation by Dr. Kehinde Abiola, Rector of Living Spring College of Technology and Innovation, who spoke on “Contribution of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to Peace.”

Dr. Abiola noted that the International Day of Peace, set aside by the United Nations since 1981, is aimed at promoting unity and non-violence across nations, stressing that NSCDC’s activities strongly align with this mandate.

He explained that through conflict mediation, protection of communities, prevention of violence, and safeguarding of critical assets, the Corps has become an indispensable agency in Nigeria’s peace-building architecture.

Citing examples from Osun State, Dr. Abiola highlighted recent operations of the Corps, including the destruction of an illegal mining site in Atakumosa West, the arrest of vandals who damaged a 450mm water pipe belonging to the Osun State Water Corporation, and the sealing of an unregistered children’s home in Osogbo where malnourished children were rescued.

He further commended the Agro-Rangers Department of the NSCDC for its efforts in resolving recurrent farmer–herder crises in the state, noting that his institution was a direct beneficiary of the Corps’ professional mediation during a recent crisis involving the destruction of a school farm.

“The transparent and professional handling of the matter by Agro-Rangers officers brought about peace, ensured compensation, and discouraged further destruction of the farm.”

Dr. Abiola also expressed gratitude to Hon. Marufu Adebisi, Special Adviser to the State Governor on Nomadic Affairs, whose diligent coordination of stakeholders contributed immensely to the resolution of the crisis.

The Rector, however, identified several challenges facing the Corps, including inadequate funding, manpower shortages, poor logistics, inter-agency rivalry, and low public awareness of its mandate. He stressed that without sufficient resources and institutional support, the Corps would struggle to meet the growing security demands of the country.

Dr. Abiola called for stronger community relations and the establishment of Community Relations Associations across NSCDC formations, beginning with Osun State Command. According to him, such partnerships with traditional rulers, local associations, and community security groups would enhance intelligence gathering, boost public trust, and strengthen preventive peace-building.

He concluded by urging the Federal Government, as well as state and local governments, to increase funding and logistical support for the Corps. He also recommended that ministries of agriculture and livestock development make financial provisions for the Agro-Rangers in their annual budgets, given their central role in protecting farmers and securing Nigeria’s food supply.

The International Day of Peace, observed globally on September 21, was marked by the Osun State Command of the NSCDC with renewed commitment to building peace, fostering dialogue, and protecting communities in the state