The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kaduna State Command, has urged residents and stakeholders to adopt proactive environmental measures to foster resilient and sustainable communities.
The appeal was made during the 2026 International Civil Defence Day celebrations held in Kaduna.
The Deputy Commandant of the Corps (DCC), Kalu Ndukwe, representing the State Commandant, Commandant Panam Musa, said this year’s theme, “Managing Environmental Risks for a Resilient and Sustainable Future”, highlights the pressing need to tackle environmental challenges such as flooding, drought, desertification, erosion, land degradation, and pollution.
“The world is witnessing an unprecedented increase in environmental hazards. These are no longer distant warnings but realities we face daily here in Kaduna State and across Nigeria,” he said.
He noted that Kaduna State has experienced flash floods displacing families and destroying livelihoods, while erosion and desertification continue to threaten farmlands and local communities.
The command highlighted that the NSCDC’s responsibilities extend beyond protecting national assets and critical infrastructure, encompassing active involvement in disaster management, emergency response, and public safety as outlined in Section 3 of the NSCDC Act.
According to Ndukwe, Kaduna State Command has deployed its Disaster Management and Emergency Response Units during crises and collaborated with relevant agencies to respond to flood incidents and curb illegal mining.
“Illegal mining is a major contributor to land degradation in our state. We will continue to work with partner agencies to hold offenders accountable,” he added.
The command encouraged residents to avoid dumping refuse in drainage channels, resist illegal sand mining along riverbanks, prevent deforestation and bush burning, and actively participate in environmental sanitation campaigns.
He stressed that building resilience is a shared responsibility requiring the participation of citizens, community and religious leaders, and local government authorities.
“Prevention is always more effective and cost-efficient than cure. We urge all stakeholders to collaborate with the NSCDC in identifying and reporting environmental hazards before they escalate into full-blown disasters,” Ndukwe said.
Officers and men of the corps were also charged to remain professional, disciplined, and vigilant in their duties, with integrity and readiness as core priorities in emergency response.
He expressed gratitude to the Commandant-General of the NSCDC for his visionary leadership and commitment to strengthening the corps nationwide, as well as to the Kaduna State Government for its ongoing support.
The day is observed annually to recognise the critical role of civil defence organisations in safeguarding lives, property, and the environment from disasters and emergencies.