NSCDC FCT Command trains personnel on sign language

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, FCT Command, had train its personnel on sign language.

Speaking at the event, the commandant, Olusola Odumosu said the training was to bridge the security gap in the society.

“This event marks a momentous turningpoint in our dedication and determination for inclusivity as we come together to celebrate the successful completion of a vital training program which spanned over a period of five weeks to empower a total of 250 of our personnel with the skills to communicate effectively in sign language.

“I have always emphasised that capacity building is the cornerstone of modern and responsive security service delivery. The various training and retraining initiatives and the milestones achieved in the last two years are all part of our deliberate strategy to build a resilient, professional, and inclusive security outfit — one that can respond to the evolving needs of our society.”

He charged the graduands on dedication and perseverance, saying it is  a pivotal moment in advancing inclusive security within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“By acquiring these essential skills, you are equipped to bridge communication gaps and ensure that every citizen, regardless of their ability in all the six (6) Area Councils of the FCT, feels a sense of safety and belonging in our society.

“As participants selected from all the Divisions, Area Commands and the Command Headquarter, your role goes beyond mere protection; it encompasses understanding and addressing the diverse needs of all members of the community, especially at the grassroot. Inclusion is at the heart of effective security, and by learning sign language, you have made a vital commitment to ensuring that the voices of the deaf and hard-of-hearing citizens are heard and understood. Remember, in every community, there are voices that are not heard — you are now equipped to listen.

“Ladies and gentlemen, it is pertinent to state that our Command’s commitment to learning sign language demonstrates a profound respect for diversity and our firm belief in inclusive security. By acquiring this language, we are not only enhancing our professional capabilities but also breaking barriers, fostering understanding, and building a safer, more compassionate society.

“The initiative behind this training is not merely about adding another feather to our cap. It is about bridging the communication gap between our personnel and every members of the society. This training enhances not only our service delivery but also strengthens our intelligence-gathering capacity, particularly in cases involving vulnerable communities. Afterall, in the 21st-century security environment, inclusion is not a privilege — it is a necessity.

“By acquiring this foundational knowledge, we are empowered to better serve and respond to security needs of our various communities without leaving anyone behind, and we wll leverage on this skill to entertain complaints, carry out interrogations, and gather intelligence without relying on interpreters.

“As we look to the future, I am optimistic that our commitment to inclusive security will contribute significantly to building a safer, more secure Federal Capital Territory. Remember, your efforts will not only impact your work but will also change lives and perceptions within our society.”