The Citizens Watch Advocacy Initiative (CWAI), a civil society and pressure group, has lauded the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for its innovative Agro-Rangers and Mining Marshals initiatives. These programs aim to boost Nigeria’s food security, protect farmers, and secure the country’s mining sector.

The Agro-Rangers Initiative, spearheaded by NSCDC Commandant-General Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has deployed over 1,000 officers to safeguard farmers and their farmlands across the country, particularly in the northern states. This move has enabled farmers to cultivate and harvest their crops without fear of attacks from bandits and other criminal elements.

CWAI Executive Secretary Omoba Kenneth Aigbegbele praised the NSCDC for its efforts, stating that the initiative has reduced insecurity in farming communities and increased food production. “The Agro-Rangers have been instrumental in mediating conflicts between farmers and herders, preventing malicious destruction of farmlands, and ensuring the safety of agricultural investments.”

In addition to the Agro-Rangers, the NSCDC has also launched the Mining Marshals program to combat illegal mining and promote economic growth. The Federal Government recently deployed an additional 350 marshals to enhance the operational effectiveness of the squad.

Since the inauguration of the marshals, over 200 illegal mining suspects have been arrested, with 135 prosecutions and confiscation of illegally mined resources. CWAI commended the NSCDC for its commitment to reforming the mining sector and generating revenue for the country.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr. Dele Alake, emphasized the importance of the Mining Marshals in sanitizing the sector and boosting investors’ confidence. “The deployment of additional operatives will intensify efforts against illegal miners nationwide and ensure the country reaps the full benefits of its solid minerals for economic development.”

The group stated that, Dr. Audi stressed the need for continuous training and deployments to ensure comprehensive coverage of the country’s vast mining areas. according to him “The NSCDC will not rest until the country is completely free from any form of insecurity.”

However, CWAI endorsed the initiatives, urging the Federal Government to provide adequate funding for training, capacity development, and manpower development of the Agro-Rangers and Mining Marshals.

“The populist approach of these initiatives will assist in fishing out hoodlums, rustlers, and bandits, promoting peaceful co-existence and economic growth,” Aigbegbele said.

The Agro-Rangers Initiative has been particularly effective in states plagued by banditry and insecurity, such as Benue and Borno. Farmers in these areas can now access their farmlands with confidence, thanks to the protection provided by the Agro-Rangers.

CWAI also noted that NSCDC’s collaboration with international organizations has bolstered efforts to safeguard agro-allied investments and boost the mining sector.

The organization pledged to support the NSCDC in its efforts to tackle bandits, herders, and illegal miners, promoting a safe and secure environment for all.

“NSCDC’s initiatives align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at diversifying the economy and promoting economic growth,” Aigbegbele said.