The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC Imo State Command has commended Governor Hope Uzodimma for fostering strong synergy among security agencies in the state, even as it embraced partnership with the Forum of Imo Publishers of Online Newspapers, FIPON, to combat crime, vandalism and misinformation.
The State Commandant, Mr. Basil Igwebueze, made this known while receiving FIPON on a familiarization visit at the NSCDC Command Headquarters in Owerri on September 1st 2026.
He said credible reportage is vital to safeguarding lives, property and critical national assets, stressing that the Corps cannot work in isolation.
“The visit marks a new chapter that will strengthen our resolve to do more in protecting citizens. We need the media to properly report our functions so the public will understand how security is being delivered,” he stated.
The Commandant expressed satisfaction with FIPON’s “Clarity Over Falsehood Campaign”, led by State Chairman Evangelist Chuks Nwokeji, describing it as a bold step toward promoting truth, accuracy and ethical online journalism in Imo.
Declaring an open door policy, he urged journalists to verify any information about the Corps.
“If we fail to provide answers, it means we have been found wanting in the discharge of our mandate,” he said.
Highlighting core mandates, Mr. Igwebueze said NSCDC is responsible for protecting government facilities in education, health, transportation, agriculture and energy. He noted that oil pipeline protection is central to Nigeria’s economy and disclosed that personnel are on ground to stop vandals.
On education, he said the Corps is at the forefront of protecting schools and tertiary institutions through the Agro-Rangers Unit, especially amid rising kidnapping concerns. He also announced the “catch them young” campaign in schools to discourage cultism, drug abuse and other vices.
The Commandant further revealed ongoing efforts to promote peaceful co-existence between farmers and herders, and the use of the Conflict Resolution Unit to settle disputes amicably. He added that all Private Guard Companies in Imo are professionally monitored and licensed by NSCDC.
Speaking on inter-agency collaboration, he explained that NSCDC has exclusive prosecutorial powers over vandals, with the Army and Police handing over suspects to the Corps, while drug-related cases are handed to NDLEA.
He attributed the robust synergy among security agencies in Imo to the massive support of Governor Hope Uzodimma, and commended him for creating an enabling environment for security operations.
Adopting the slogan “If you see something, say something”, the Commandant urged citizens and the media to volunteer information to aid governance and security.
FIPON Chairman, Evangelist Chuks Nwokeji, pledged the forum’s commitment to partner with NSCDC through media sensitization, public advocacy against vandalism and economic sabotage, and joint campaigns against cultism and drug abuse.
The Commandant concluded by thanking FIPON and called for regular engagement, stressing that consistent information sharing is essential to curbing crime and threats to critical infrastructure.
