NSCDC Strengthens Female Special Force With New Intelligence, Research Training

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has launched a two-day training program for its Female Special Force (FSF) with a focus on intelligence-led operations, research and strategic security response. The workshop, which began on Wednesday in Abuja, aims to enhance the operational capabilities of State Commanders and selected female officers across the nation, particularly in safeguarding Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI).

NSCDC Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Audi, inaugurated the program, emphasizing that the rising complexity of modern security challenges necessitates the crucial role of women in national security. Audi highlighted that sustainable peace could only be achieved through women's active involvement in security operations, conflict prevention, peacebuilding and intelligence gathering.

He stressed that the initiative aligns with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 and the NSCDC Gender Policy, both of which advocate for gender mainstreaming, equal opportunities and the inclusion of women in security structures.

The National Commander of the FSF, Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Imonikhe Oluwakemi, reaffirmed the unit's dedication to bolstering the protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, integrating data-driven intelligence into its field operations. ACC Oluwakemi stated that the training would empower female officers to convert intelligence and research findings into practical security measures.

Head of the Critical Thinking, Research and Innovation Unit (CTRIU) at the NSCDC, ACC Dr. Ogunshola Folashade, pointed out that physical strength alone is insufficient to address contemporary security challenges. She stressed that modern security operations demand critical thinking, technological application, strategic intelligence, and evidence-based decision-making.

The workshop drew goodwill messages from other security agencies, such as the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Service, and Federal Fire Service, highlighting the importance of inter-agency cooperation in enhancing national security.

The training also included the awarding of performance accolades to State Commanders from Benue, Kebbi, Edo, and Bayelsa States, acknowledging their contributions to the NSCDC's operational goals. The NSCDC asserts that this program is part of its broader strategy to cultivate a knowledgeable, intelligence-driven, and gender-responsive security force capable of responding to evolving threats nationwide.