Rivers gets new NSCDC commandant

New Rivers NSCDC Commandant, Joachim Okafor

The newly deployed Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Rivers State Command, Joachim Okafor, has called for effective collaboration of all stakeholders in the state to enhance the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure.

Okafor made the call on Thursday during the handing and taking over ceremony at the NSCDC State Headquarters in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

He thanked Commandant General Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi for the privilege to serve, pledging to work relentlessly and promote the integrity of the Corps while serving the nation with utmost dedication.

Okafor noted that the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure, which remains the mainstay of the nation’s economy and is a hallmark of the Corps mandate, can only be actualized through effective collaborations amongst critical stakeholders.

To achieve this, the State NSCDC Commandant said his administration would work in synergy with the Government, all Sisters Security Agencies, Community and Religious leaders, Civil Society Organizations, the youth, and the media, amongst others, in combating crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, environmental degradation and other associated crimes in the State.

Commending the efforts and pedigree of Okafor, who served as Niger State Commandant before his deployment to Rivers, the Zone L Commander in charge of Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River, Assistant Commandant General Ayinla Olowo, said the new State Commandant is an experienced, highly resourceful and dedicated officer who has served in various capacity in NSCDC formations across the nation.

Olowo further hinted that posting and deployment of officers within the NSCDC is not a punishment but an opportunity to enhance their performance and develop potential.

He praised the dedication of the immediate past Commandant, Basil Igwebueze, and charged the state command officers and men to be disciplined, remain loyal to the high command of the NSCDC and be dedicated to the nation’s service.