The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Gombe State Command, has commemorated this year’s International Civil Defence Day with a series of activities, including a symbolic route march, interfaith services and a medical outreach for officers and residents.
The event, held in Gombe on Monday, began with a route march from the State Command Headquarters through major streets in the metropolis before returning to the command.
This was contained in a press statement signed on Monday by CSC Buhari Saad, command Public Relations Officer.
The exercise was followed by a medical outreach organised by the Civil Defence Officers Wives Association (CDOWA) for officers, men of the corps and members of the public.
Earlier, the Deputy Commandant of Corps, Abubakar Y. Muri, represented the State Commandant at a special Friday prayer at the Gombe Central Mosque, where prayers were offered for the corps and the nation.
A thanksgiving and rededication service was also held at the ECWA Good News Church, with officers and men in attendance.
Speaking during the celebration, the State Commandant, Idris who was represented by Deputy Commandant Gomna Bulus, expressed gratitude for the protection enjoyed by personnel in the course of their duties.
“We give God all the glory for His protection over our officers and men. Their unwavering dedication and sacrifices have contributed significantly to the safety and stability of communities across Gombe State,” he said.
Idris highlighted the importance of this year’s theme, “Managing Environmental Risk for a Resilient and Sustainable Future,” noting that the corps’ mandate goes beyond physical security.
“Our responsibility does not end with protecting lives and property. It also includes safeguarding critical national assets, disaster management and environmental risk management,” he said.
According to him, managing environmental risk requires a proactive and collaborative approach.
“We must strengthen early warning systems, sensitise communities on environmental protection, enforce regulations and work closely with stakeholders to mitigate climate-related risks,” he added.
The commandant called on traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, religious institutions, private organisations and the media to partner with the corps in building safer and more resilient communities.
“We urge all stakeholders to join hands with the NSCDC in creating safer, greener and more sustainable communities for present and future generations,” he said, while commending officers for their gallantry, professionalism and commitment to service.
The celebration concluded with a novelty volleyball match between the State Command Headquarters and Area Commands and Divisions. The Area Commands and Divisions team defeated the State Command Headquarters with a 2–1 scoreline in a best-of-three encounter.
The event formed part of activities to mark International Civil Defence Day, observed globally to recognise the role of civil defence organisations in emergency response, disaster management and the protection of critical infrastructure.
