In response to recent security concerns, the Department of Security Service, of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has initiated a comprehensive security operation aimed at neutralizing criminal activities within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
Dr. Peter Olumuji, Secretary of the Command and Control Centre, shared this information in Abuja on Wednesday, highlighting the city’s overall security during the festive season due to enhanced security operations.
He emphasized the increased presence of residents in recreational parks and other centers during Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Acknowledging isolated attacks, particularly in the Bwari Area Council, Olumuji assured that security agencies, in collaboration with vigilantes and hunters, successfully repelled these incidents.
He disclosed that the Police Commissioner, FCT Command, and his tactical team visited affected areas for a confidence-building exercise, with additional resources deployed to enhance security.
Addressing concerns about other areas such as Kuje, Kwali, and Jikwoi, Olumuji reported no incidents within these regions during the festive period, indicating an improvement in FCT’s daily security.
He reassured residents that security agencies are intensifying efforts to suppress criminal elements, particularly along border communities.
The secretary attributed current security challenges to neighboring communities in Niger, Kaduna, Kogi, and Nasarawa states. Criminal elements were reportedly crossing into the FCT, committing crimes, and retreating. In response, security agencies have increased personnel deployment to fortify border communities.
Olumuji called upon the security chiefs of the G-7 security initiative, involving FCT and neighboring states, to fulfill their responsibilities. The initiative aims to strengthen collaboration among security chiefs in FCT and the six contiguous states to address cross-border security challenges.
Despite acknowledging gains, Olumuji stressed that the FCT still bears a significant burden within the G7 and urged other states to contribute effectively. He highlighted the challenges posed by the mountainous terrain of border communities, limiting vehicle access and requiring security personnel to cover areas on foot.
To address these challenges, the FCTA is considering the use of technology, specifically drones, to enhance security surveillance in border communities. Olumuji disclosed ongoing discussions with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to leverage their surveillance drones for enhanced security.
The secretary also highlighted the adoption of both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to tackle insecurity in the FCT. Non-kinetic strategies include ensuring residents have access to the Police Command Control phone number for real-time reporting and encouraging communities to establish vigilantes and hunters as part of their security network. Awareness campaigns promoting a “see something, say something” approach aim to facilitate timely responses from security personnel.
