KatsinaTimes
The National President and Convener of Wazobia Conflict Resolution and Peace Advocacy Initiative (WACORPAI), Rt. Comrade Amb. Dr. Garba Sulaiman D. Marafa, has called on the National Assembly to constitutionally recognise the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the ongoing constitutional review process.
Speaking at a public hearing on constitutional amendments, Marafa described the NSCDC as a critical component of Nigeria’s internal security architecture, deserving of full constitutional backing to further strengthen its role in safeguarding national assets, resolving conflicts, and protecting communities.
Marafa lauded the National Assembly for providing a platform for stakeholders to contribute to shaping Nigeria’s future and stressed the importance of addressing the legal status of the NSCDC, which currently operates under an act of the National Assembly, but without constitutional mention.
“The Corps needs to be constitutionally recognised considering the enormous security responsibilities it shoulders,” he said. “Such recognition will enhance inter-agency collaboration, ensure long-term security stability, and consolidate NSCDC’s frontline role in maintaining peace.”
He highlighted key areas where the NSCDC has made significant impact, including the protection of critical national assets, such as oil pipelines and transformers; the Agro Rangers Unit, which helps prevent herder-farmer conflicts and supports food security; and the Peace and Conflict Resolution Unit, which provides community mediation to avert crises and avoid lengthy civil litigations.
Marafa also drew attention to the Safe School Programme under the National Safe School Response and Coordination Centre (NSSRCC), domiciled at the NSCDC headquarters. He noted that the centre, working with other security agencies, has registered over 11,000 schools and averted 38 potential attacks nationwide.
“The NSCDC has demonstrated effectiveness in addressing school-related threats such as kidnapping, gender-based violence, and cultism. Their leadership role in safe school implementation, based on the Safe School Declaration ratified in 2019, deserves national recognition,” he said.
The WACORPAI leader also emphasized the Corps’ regulatory role over Private Guard Companies, including registration, training, inspection, and monitoring, as well as its ongoing fight against illegal mining through dedicated mining marshals.
As part of his recommendations, Marafa urged that:
The functions and structure of the NSCDC be clearly defined in the Constitution.
The mandates previously granted to the Corps by legislative acts be expanded.
The duties of other security agencies be spelt out to avoid inter-agency conflicts and casualties.
Traditional leaders, religious groups, and civil society organizations support the constitutional backing for the NSCDC.
Marafa concluded by reaffirming his full support for the bill and the constitutional review process, noting the NSCDC’s commitment to professionalism, grassroots security, and public trust.
“Let this constitutional review mark a turning point for national security, peace, and justice,” he declared.
The presentation is among several received by the National Assembly as it seeks broad public input on amendments to Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution.
