The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare, safety and protection of its personnel, describing their well-being as a top priority of the administration of the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi.
The Commandant General stated this during the opening ceremony of a three-day sensitisation programme for NSCDC insurance desk officers and personnel on the onboarding of Corps personnel onto the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS), organised in collaboration with the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF).
Audi, who was represented by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Technical Services, DCG Zakari Ibrahim Ningi, said the scheme was crucial to safeguarding officers and their families against the risks associated with their duties.
He noted that NSCDC personnel, given the nature of their responsibilities in protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, safeguarding lives and property, disaster management and emergency response, are frequently exposed to occupational hazards, injuries and other risks.
According to him, the Employees’ Compensation Scheme provides financial and social protection for workers who suffer work-related injuries, disabilities, occupational diseases or death in the course of their employment.
He added that beyond its financial benefits, the scheme promotes dignity, security and confidence among workers and their families.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of NSITF, Barr. Oluwaseun Faleye, commended the NSCDC Commandant General for prioritising personnel welfare.
Faleye disclosed that the Corps had demonstrated consistent commitment to the implementation of the scheme since 2024, in collaboration with the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation.
Earlier, the Deputy Commandant in charge of the Insurance Unit, Dr. Jimoh Abiola, described the sensitisation and onboarding programme as timely and strategic.
She explained that the initiative would enhance personnel’s understanding of the scheme, particularly its coverage, eligibility requirements, benefits, obligations and claims procedures.
Abiola further disclosed that the programme was designed as a Train-the-Trainers initiative, with participants drawn from State Commands, Zonal Commands and the National Headquarters.
She urged participants to take full advantage of the training and ensure that the knowledge acquired was effectively disseminated to other personnel across the Corps.
As part of the event, Awards of Excellence were presented to outstanding personnel and stakeholders in recognition of their contributions and commitment to service delivery.
Additionally, cheques totalling N87,455,217 were presented to some beneficiaries under the Group Life Insurance benefits.
The initiative underscores the NSCDC leadership’s commitment to strengthening the welfare framework of the Corps and ensuring that personnel and their families receive adequate support in the event of work-related risks or unforeseen circumstances.