Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has called on the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to deploy at least 400 more personnel to the state, citing critical security gaps and the urgent need to tackle illegal mining.
The appeal came during a visit on Friday by the NSCDC Commandant-General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to the Government House in Abakaliki. The governor described the current security workforce in Ebonyi as “grossly inadequate” compared with other states and expressed deep concern over the rise of unregulated mining operations. He noted that valuable resources, including gold, are being exploited under the pretext of lead and zinc mining, with little oversight.
“In the absence of sufficient NSCDC personnel, military forces are being stretched beyond their primary roles, effectively performing NSCDC duties,” Nwifuru said.
The governor presented a list of 194 potential recruits from Ebonyi State for federal consideration, emphasizing that their inclusion in the Corps would boost security, reduce youth unemployment, and promote accountability in the mining sector. He also highlighted the limitations of state authority under federal law, which vests the power to grant mining licenses and approvals solely with the federal government.
“We don’t issue mining licenses or consent agreements; the federal government does. Without sufficient manpower, our hands are tied,” he said, pledging that Ebonyi would provide logistical support, including operational vehicles, once additional personnel are deployed. “If you give us 400 officers, the 10 Hilux vehicles will be ready immediately,” he assured.
Responding, Prof. Audi acknowledged the challenges in Ebonyi, reaffirming the NSCDC’s mandate to protect national assets, regulate private security, and secure mining areas. He revealed that the Corps has already shut down over 600 illegal mining sites nationwide, arresting more than 500 suspects, including foreign nationals, many of whom are facing prosecution. The Commandant-General also highlighted the risks faced by officers, citing the recent killing of eight operatives in Edo State during a rescue operation.
Prof. Audi’s visit was part of a national operational tour to assess state-level challenges and infrastructure needs within the Corps. During the visit, Governor Nwifuru inaugurated Saint Francis Chapel at the NSCDC State Command Headquarters, a facility built by State Commandant Mr. Francis Nnadi to promote ethical conduct and spiritual discipline among personnel.
Commandant Nnadi reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to partnering with the Ebonyi State Government to address security challenges, particularly in vulnerable communities, supporting the governor’s broader developmental agenda.
