NSCDC FCT Command Holds Maiden 10km Route March To Boost Officers’ Fitness, Discipline

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on Saturday held its maiden 10-kilometre route march.

The Command described the physical exercise held in Abuja as vital for building discipline, resilience, and operational readiness among its officers.

The FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, said holding the event days after Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary was deliberate as the event served as a celebration of national unity.

Odumosu said, “This event is not just a march; it is a symbol of discipline, fitness, resilience, and unity. Our duty demands that we remain physically fit, mentally alert, and emotionally stable to confront the challenges of protecting lives, property, and critical national assets.”

He explained that the route march was not a one-off activity but part of plans to reposition the FCT Command for greater efficiency.

According to him, physical training and periodic endurance exercises are essential for keeping officers battle-ready in the face of evolving security threats.

“Readiness is not a one-time act but a continuous commitment to discipline and self-improvement. The 10km march is designed to build endurance, strengthen teamwork, and reinforce the bond of comradeship that defines the military and paramilitary worldwide,” he said.

He praised the officers and men for their active participation, noting that their zeal reflects the “undaunted, reliable, and ever-ready spirit of the Corps.”

“I want to remind each and every one of us that health is wealth. While we remain steadfast in discharging our duties to the nation, we must also prioritize our personal well-being. Physical fitness is inseparable from operational efficiency,” he added.

Addressing journalists after the walk, Odumosu stressed that the Corps’ responsibility as a “full-fledged paramilitary agency” makes the health of its officers non-negotiable.

The commandant said, “There is a thin line between operational efficiency and personal health. We cannot be weak and expect to face criminals out there. This exercise is to keep our officers fit, mentally agile, and resilient. Unfortunately, people just slump and die these days — just recently, we lost a colleague in Edo State who slumped on duty. That is why we must take our health seriously.”

He further described the march as a preventive measure that not only improves physical agility but also promotes gallantry, toughness, and alertness, which he said are required to confront today’s complex security challenges.

“This is in line with global standards for paramilitary and military officers worldwide, ensuring that we are always on top of our game,” Odumosu explained.

The event also features officers who underwent medical checks, including blood pressure and blood glucose screenings, while others enjoyed therapeutic body massages to ease fatigue after the long trek.

Odumosu explained that these were not mere formalities but essential health measures to keep personnel strong and clear-minded. “The strength we build today will reflect in our performance tomorrow,” he said.

Also, the Command organised several sporting and recreational activities. Officers competed in tug of war, table tennis, draughts, snooker, and even a dancing competition. Winners in each category were rewarded in recognition of their resilience and skill.

The FCT Commandant reaffirmed the Corps’ loyalty to its mandate and its continued collaboration with sister security agencies, communities, and stakeholders in safeguarding Abuja.

“Together, we can achieve more. Together, we can build a safer, stronger, and healthier Nigeria,” he said, while declaring the maiden 10km route march a success.

He charged his officers to sustain the energy beyond the event, and stressed that the peace and safety of the nation partly rests on the shoulders of security operatives.

“Let us remain resolute in our duties and ever conscious of the fact that the security and peace of our nation depend on us,” Odumosu said.