NSCDC launches VIPs protection unit

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has launched a new unit – the VIPs Protection Unit.

The unit will be responsible for the protection of individuals who are exposed to threats as a result of their status.

The first batch of 501 personnel, who have been trained to carry out the new responsibilities, passed out in a ceremony at the Corps headquarters in Abuja on Friday.

The Commandant General  NSCDC, Ahmed Audi, who spoke at the Passing Out Parade, said the VIPs guard and protection had always been part of the mandate of the NSCDC.

Audi, who was represented  by the ACG in charge of Agro Rangers, Austine Obiekwe, enjoined the personnel to be good ambassadors of the Corps in the place of assignment.

He warned that any of them “caught in acts that could put the Corps in a bad light would be punished.”

The ACG in Charge of Training and Manpower Fevelopment, David Abi, said the training of members of the unit lasted for a week.

He said the personnel, drawn from the arms squad unit of commands across the country, were drilled in special proficiency body guard/VIPs protection course.

He said the training sessions in “VIP escorts, duties, psychological behaviors, the effect of emotion on temper, attitude and relationship between principal and personnel among others will no doubt equip the selected officer in the effective discharge of their duties far beyond previous expectation.”