The Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory Command, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, has urged for deeper multi-stakeholder collaboration to curb drug abuse and dismantle distribution networks across the country.
Dr. Odumosu made the appeal after receiving the Security and Emergency Management Award (SAEMA) 2025 – Law Enforcement Officer of the Year, at a ceremony held at the National Headquarters of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, the FCT Commandant highlighted the Corps’ role in safeguarding critical national assets and promoting community safety, stressing that drug control has evolved beyond a public-health concern into a national security priority.
He noted the dangerous connection between substance abuse, crime, terrorism, vandalism and social instability, emphasizing that Nigeria must embrace more innovative approaches to effectively tackle the challenge.
“Innovation must be at the heart of our collective response — in intelligence gathering, community engagement, technology deployment and partnership building,” Odumosu said. “These approaches will help us build safer neighbourhoods, empower our young people and secure a stable future for our nation.”
Odumosu praised the organizers of the event, describing the SAEMA platform as an important avenue for recognizing excellence in security and emergency management. He also commended fellow award recipients for their dedication and service, adding that such recognition serves as motivation to continue working for the safety of Nigerians.
This year’s ceremony marks the 7th edition of the awards, organized annually by Image Merchants Promotions Limited (IMPL), publishers of PRNigeria and Emergency Digest, in partnership with the Centre for Crisis Communication, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, and the International Emergency Management Society. Notably, Commandant Odumosu previously won the same award in 2023.
IMPL CEO and Editor, Yushau Shuaib, said the recognition was in honor of Odumosu’s exceptional contributions to security management, professionalism and resilience in tackling national security challenges.
The event also featured a keynote address by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd.), who chaired the occasion, as well as the presentation of awards to honorees from various sectors.
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