The new Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Edo, Mr Saidi Akintayo, on Friday, assumed office with a call for unity, integrity and renewed dedication among officers of the command.
Akintayo officially took over the command’s administration following the death of his predecessor, Commandant Gbenga Agun on Oct. 2 in Benin.
In his emotional address, he described Agun and another late senior officer, Commandant Stella Chukwujekwu, as “brave souls who never returned to tell their stories.”
“It is with deep pain that I recall the recent passing of our beloved colleague and brother, Gbenga Agun.
“His death was a rude shock to every one of us, myself in particular.
“He was not only a committed officer of the Corps but also my bosom friend,” he said.
He revealed that his professional relationship with Agun spanned over 15 years, marked by mutual respect, collaboration, and shared vision.
“We had plans to work on meaningful projects even after our active service.
“His sudden departure is a painful reminder of the brevity of life,” he added solemnly.
The new commandant also described the late Commandant Stella Chukwujekwu as a “resilient and determined woman who fought tirelessly throughout her life to carve out a path for herself.”
“Sadly, she was not that lucky, as she was not granted the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of her labour.
“The cold hand of death took her just as she was preparing to embrace the peace of retirement,” he lamented.
After observing a minute of silence in their honour, the new commandant called on officers to remain united and uphold the values of the Corps.
“As we step into a new chapter together, I urge every one of us to foster a spirit of cooperation, unity, and purpose.
“Our success, as a command, lies not in individual effort alone but in our collective dedication to duty.
“Let us work with honesty, discipline and integrity,” he urged.
The NSCDC boss acknowledged the challenges ahead, but pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessors.
“Though some of you may still see me as the same Saidi Akintayo you knew before, I acknowledge that this new role comes with greater responsibility and expectations,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Audi, for the confidence reposed in him, describing the appointment as a “divine elevation.”
“I want to express my profound gratitude to our visionary Commandant General, Prof. Audi, for the trust reposed in me and for allowing himself to be an instrument of my divine elevation.
“May God continue to strengthen and bless him with wisdom to lead this great Corps,” he said.
Earlier in his address, the state Acting commandant, DC Bamidele Orejimi, called on the personnel to extend the unflinching support and loyalty accorded him during the period he acted to the substantive commandant.
He assured Akintayo of his support in ensuring that he succeeded in his new assignment.
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