By Praise Chinecherem
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command has described the media as a crucial partner in preventing crimes and criminalty in Nigeria.
The State Commandant, Isidore Chikere stated this on Tuesday when he met with Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), Sir Chido Obidiegwu in Awka as part of his familiarization tour to relevant stakeholders in the State.
He said NSCDC depends greatly on the media to achieve success in the Corps fight against destruction of Government Critical National Assets and infrastructures, stoppage of adulterated petroleum products and illegal bunkering, and in eradication of quacks within the private security industry.
He said, “In line with the Act establishing Civil Defence Corps, we are charged with the protection of all Critical National Assets and Infrastructures of the government, licencing, supervision, monitoring and training of Private Guards Companies, in addition to eliminating the rate of illegal bunkering and dealings on petroleum products.
“Since my arrival to the state, the command has recorded tremendous success but the way the public will determine how successful we are at what we do, depends largely on the media to showcase our success stories to them.
“That is why I have thought it wise to come visit you to seek for areas we can strengthen our collaboration especially in the reportage of command’s activities to members of the public.”
The NSCDC further urged the media to be credible watchdogs and assist the NSCDC and other security agencies with credible intelligence to nip crime at the bud.
Acknowledging the role of Anambra Broadcasting Service in driving awareness and sensitization through programmes educating Nigerians not to aid and abet crime, Chikere praised the management for airing some of the Command’s breakthroughs at no cost.
Responding, MD ABS, Sir. Chido Obidiegwu thanked State Commandant and his team for the visit, stressing that frequent interface between the NSCDC and the media, especially ABS would engender better relationship among the two organisations, and the broader Nigerian society.
He assured NSCDC of massive support and collaboration of the establishment to work with the Corps in its relentless effort at providing adequate security of lives and property as well as secure environment for business and commercial activities to thrive in the State.
