The Provost of the Civil Defence College of Security Management, Assistant Commandant General Niyi Akintelure, has charged graduating officers of the institution to uphold discipline, professionalism, and integrity in the discharge of their duties.
Akintelure gave the charge during the passing out parade ceremony for participants of the College Composite Arms Training Programme (COCATRAP 032), Filed Officers Arms Handling Training (FOAHT 021), and Very Important Personality Protection Course (VIP 002), held at the college in Oke Mosan, Abeokuta.
Addressing officers, instructors, guests, families, and members of the media, the provost described the occasion as significant and memorable, noting that the trainees had undergone rigorous physical, mental, and moral training in arms handling and combat operations.
According to him, the officers had been trained to handle weapons with precision, operate as coordinated units, and make sound decisions under pressure while understanding the responsibility attached to bearing arms.
He stressed that the passing out parade was not the end of training but the beginning of greater responsibility in service to the nation.
Akintelure urged the graduating officers to remain disciplined and professional at all times.
“Discipline is your foundation. The ability to bear arms is meaningless without self-control, restraint, professionalism, and strict adherence to rules of engagement,” he said.
The provost also reminded the officers that their loyalty must remain with the public, warning against abuse of authority, intimidation, and misuse of weapons.
“These skills are not for personal gain or abuse of authority. They are meant to protect lives, maintain peace and order, and defend the vulnerable in society,” he added.
He further advised the officers to maintain teamwork and mutual trust in the line of duty, describing such values as essential for operational effectiveness and safety.
Akintelure commended the instructors for their sacrifices and dedication in moulding the trainees into disciplined officers ready for national service.
He equally appreciated families and loved ones of the graduating officers for their support throughout the training period.
Among dignitaries present at the ceremony were the Zonal Commander of Zone One Lagos of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, ACG Akinbo Olusola Michael, represented by Deputy Commandant of Corps Abosede Kuti, and the Ogun State Commandant of the corps, Commandant Remilekun Omolade Ekundayo, represented by Deputy Commandant of Corps Popoola Adebayo Rafiu.
The senior officers commended the gallantry displayed by the graduating officers and urged them to prioritise the protection of lives and public infrastructure in line with the core mandates of the corps.
They also called on Nigerians to collaborate with security agencies to ensure a safer society.
Highlights of the ceremony included combat drills, arms handling demonstrations, and VIP protection exercises performed by the graduating officers.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Deputy Provost of the college, Commandant of Corps Adeyinka Sakirat Toyin, appreciated guests, trainees, and their families for their support, assuring that the NSCDC would remain committed to continuous training and retraining of its personnel.
