The newly deployed Kwara State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Commandant Bala Bawa Bodinga, has rolled out fresh security measures aimed at strengthening protection of lives, property and critical national assets across the state.
Speaking with journalists at the NSCDC headquarters in Ilorin, the commandant said his posting to Kwara followed directives from the Commandant General of the Corps, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, who mandated him to take over the state command and consolidate on existing security structures.
Bodinga said since assuming office, he has intensified surveillance operations, particularly within Ilorin metropolis, stressing that residents can now move around at night with improved security presence.
“From the day I took over, there has been no break in operations. Our personnel are on 24-hour surveillance across Ilorin and other strategic locations,” he said.
He added that the command has deployed additional operatives to Kiama following recent security concerns in the area, assuring residents that the situation is under control.
“In view of recent developments in Kiama, we have reinforced the area with more personnel. The security architecture there has been strengthened,” he stated.
The commandant also announced that security coverage has been expanded to places of worship across the state. According to him, adequate security will be provided for Friday Jumu’ah prayers in mosques and Sunday services in churches.
“All Friday Jumu’ah prayers across the state will be provided with security. The same applies to churches on Sundays and during any major religious gatherings,” he said.
On inter-agency collaboration, Bodinga emphasised that synergy with other security agencies in the state would be deepened to enhance intelligence gathering and proactive operations.
“I am already in contact with all service commanders in the state. The synergy is active and will be strengthened. We will share ideas, intelligence and operational strategies to ensure adequate security for Kwara,” he said.
Responding to questions on modern security strategies, including training and retraining of personnel, provision of equipment and intelligence upgrades, the commandant assured that capacity building is a top priority.
I am an intelligence officer by training and also an instructor. Training and retraining of our personnel is continuous. Some aspects of our operations cannot be made public, but our officers will be well equipped technically and professionally for effective service delivery,” he explained.
He disclosed that he had already commenced internal strategic meetings with officers to share operational ideas and strengthen knowledge among personnel.
“Give us some time and you will see a new face of security in Kwara State. We are committed to giving the state and Nigeria the best,” he added.
On VIP protection, Bodinga said the command has activated modalities to respond to requests, noting that he recently participated in specialised training on VIP security alongside other senior officers.
“All necessary arrangements have been put in place for VIP protection. We are ready to attend to requests as they come,” he said.
The commandant, who hails from Bodinga in Sokoto State and has served in various operational capacities across the country, including Jigawa, Kano and the Federal Capital Territory, assured residents that under his leadership, the NSCDC would remain proactive, intelligence-driven and community-focused.
He commended members of the media for their role in promoting security awareness and pledged to maintain an open and cooperative relationship with journalists in the state.
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