The Federal Capital Territory Administration’s Department of Security Service is currently executing a comprehensive security operation to suppress criminal activities within Abuja’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Peter Olumoji, the Secretary of the Command and Control Centre, shared this information in Abuja on Wednesday in response to recent security concerns in various FCT areas.
Olumoji informed journalists that the capital city remained relatively secure throughout the festive season, a testament to the enhanced security operations. During Christmas and New Year celebrations, residents flocked to recreational parks and other centres, reflecting the city’s improved security.
While acknowledging some incidents, particularly around the Bwari Area Council, where a community faced an attack but was successfully repelled by a collaborative effort of security forces, vigilantes, and hunters, Olumoji highlighted the overall success.
He reported that the Police Commissioner, FCT Command, and his tactical team visited Bwari Area Council and communities facing security challenges on Jan. 3, instilling confidence. Additionally, the FCTA urged the commissioner to deploy more manpower, vehicular assets, and tactical teams to fortify the area.
Addressing concerns about security challenges, Olumoji assured residents that security agencies were intensifying efforts to eradicate criminal elements, especially along the border communities. He emphasised that current security issues primarily originate from neighbouring states like Niger, Kaduna, Kogi, and Nasarawa.
The secretary stressed that criminal elements often entered the FCT from neighbouring states, committed crimes, and retreated. In response, security agencies deployed personnel to strengthen security in border communities.
Calling upon the security chiefs of the G-7 security initiative, encompassing FCT and its neighbouring states, Olumoji highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to tackle cross-border security challenges effectively.
Despite acknowledging progress, he emphasised that the FCT carried a significant burden within the G7 and urged other states to contribute adequately.
To overcome challenges in mountainous border communities, Olumoji revealed plans to leverage technology, particularly drones, for enhanced security surveillance. The FCTA is exploring collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force to utilise their surveillance drones.
“If you can call in real-time when an incident occurs, then the security agencies can respond on time. Another non-kinetic approach is the encouragement of communities to have vigilantes and hunters as part of their security network.”
“There is also awareness creation, which focuses on, ‘when you see something, say something’, “These community groups have been very active in complimenting the efforts of the security agencies in the Federal Capital Territory. This will enable security personnel to act,” he said.