The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has announced tactical deployments across Rivers State to strengthen security during the Easter celebrations. The move is aimed at preventing breaches and safeguarding critical infrastructure in the oil-rich state.
In a statement issued Thursday in Port Harcourt, the spokesman for the Rivers State Command, Ihemnacho Umeado, said personnel have been mobilised to identified flashpoints and vulnerable areas. The deployment covers recreational centres, worship venues, markets, motor parks, major road intersections, and other soft targets.
The directive, according to Umeado, was issued by the State Commandant, Dr. Joachin Okafor. He instructed officers to maintain professionalism in their engagement with the public and warned that unethical conduct would attract sanctions. Okafor also emphasised the importance of synergy among security agencies, urging officers to sustain collaboration with sister organisations to ensure effective operations.
The Commandant reassured residents that the NSCDC remains committed to protecting national assets and infrastructure while safeguarding lives and property before, during, and after the Easter period. He warned criminal elements and vandals to desist from acts of sabotage, stressing that operatives are on red alert to deal decisively with threats to economic stability and public safety.
Okafor also extended Easter greetings to Christians, wishing them a peaceful and fulfilling celebration. He urged residents to remain law-abiding and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities to the nearest security post for prompt action.
The deployment comes as the Federal Government declared Friday, April 3, and Monday, April 6, 2026, public holidays to mark Easter, one of the most significant events in the Christian calendar. With large gatherings expected across the state, the NSCDC’s proactive measures are designed to reassure citizens and prevent disruptions.
Rivers State, a hub of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, hosts several critical national assets, making it a priority for heightened security during festive periods. The NSCDC’s focus on infrastructure protection reflects its mandate to secure pipelines, power installations, and other facilities vital to the nation’s economy.
The Corps’ tactical deployment underscores the broader national effort to maintain peace during Easter. By targeting flashpoints and reinforcing vulnerable areas, the NSCDC aims to deter criminal activity and ensure that residents can celebrate without fear.
The statement also highlighted the importance of community cooperation. Security agencies rely on timely information from residents to prevent incidents, and the NSCDC encouraged citizens to remain vigilant.
As Rivers State prepares for Easter, the NSCDC’s measures reflect a balance between operational readiness and public reassurance. The deployment signals a clear message to potential troublemakers while offering confidence to law-abiding citizens that their safety remains a priority.
