Lagos: The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has formally urged constitutional recognition and the creation of a dedicated service commission to enhance its legal standing and institutional stability.
Speaking during the South-West Zonal Public Hearing on the 1999 Constitution Review, the NSCDC’s legal representative, Yusuff Ogunrinde (SAN), emphasised that the NSCDC’s current status under the 2003 Act—amended in 2007—leaves it vulnerable and limits its operational legitimacy.
He argued that its inclusion in the Constitution would strengthen public trust, secure funding, and align the Corps with global best practices in civilian protection and national infrastructure.
Regarding his legal status, he explained that the Corps currently operates under the NSCDC Act of 2003, as amended in 2007, which outlines its powers and responsibilities.
He stated that the absence of constitutional recognition leaves the Corps vulnerable to institutional instability and questions of operational legitimacy, unlike the Police or Armed Forces.
Ogunrinde advocated for the inclusion of the NSCDC in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to ensure legal backing and permanence.
He said constitutional recognition would provide legal certainty and strengthen public trust in the NSCDC’s authority and relevance.
He emphasised that constitutional backing would provide a clear mandate for operations and enhance funding and resource allocation to the Corps.
Ogunrinde added that such inclusion would ensure stability for the Corps regardless of government or leadership changes.
He noted that the Constitution and amendments would better define the Corps’ responsibilities and guide its operations nationwide.
He added that it would improve inter-agency collaboration, national security, accountability, civil defence, and alignment with global best practices.
Ogunrinde also called for the establishment of an NSCDC Service Commission to improve oversight, recruitment, promotions, and public confidence.
He recalled that the NSCDC originated from the Lagos Civil Defence Committee, formed during the 1967 civil war.
It became institutionalised with the NSCDC Act 2003, recognising the need for specialised civilian protection within Nigeria’s security architecture.
He said the Corps, under the Ministry of Interior, protects national infrastructure, including oil, gas, power, and transport, which are essential to Nigeria’s economy and stability.
The Corps also regulates Private Guard Companies and has created specialised units to fulfil its responsibilities.
These units include the Agro Rangers, Safe School Initiative, Mine Marshal, and Emergency and Civil Defence Response Units.
