he Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Rivers State has welcomed a new State Commandant following the official handover of leadership from Joachin Okafor to Reuben Dennis.
The transition took place during a brief handing-over ceremony held at the Command’s headquarters along Olu Obasanjo Road in Port Harcourt.
According to a statement issued by the Rivers NSCDC Public Relations Officer, Ihemnacho Umeado, the outgoing State Commandant symbolically transferred the seal of authority to Commandant Reuben Dennis, who previously served as the second-in-command of the Rivers State Command and most recently as Head of Operations in Zone 9, Port Harcourt.
In his farewell remarks, Okafor expressed gratitude to the NSCDC Commandant-General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, for the opportunity to serve the Corps and the nation.
He also appreciated Siminalayi Fubara for supporting the command, particularly through the donation of 10 Hilux patrol vehicles, which he said significantly improved operational efficiency and security operations across the state.
Reflecting on his tenure, Okafor highlighted several achievements and urged his successor to prioritise the acquisition of a permanent site for the Rivers State Command.
In his acceptance speech, Dennis pledged to sustain and build upon the achievements recorded under his predecessor’s leadership. He assured stakeholders that he would strengthen collaboration with sister security agencies operating within the state.
The new commandant also promised to work closely with government institutions, community leaders, and other stakeholders to ensure peace and security throughout the oil-rich state.
Dennis emphasised the importance of protecting critical national assets and infrastructure, warning criminals involved in economic sabotage, vandalism, and related offences to stay away from Rivers State.
He stated that the command under his leadership would take decisive action against individuals and groups threatening economic activities and public infrastructure.
The commandant further pledged to prioritise personnel development through regular training and retraining programmes while enhancing intelligence gathering and improving the welfare of officers and personnel.
He also issued a stern warning to officers and men of the command, stressing that acts of indiscipline and misconduct would not be tolerated.
According to Dennis, disciplinary measures would be applied where necessary to maintain professionalism, accountability, and public trust within the organisation.
He reiterated that security is a collective responsibility and called on residents of Rivers State to support security agencies by providing useful information and cooperating with efforts aimed at tackling crime and insecurity.
The new Rivers NSCDC boss also expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Commandant-General Ahmed Audi for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the command.
Highlights of the ceremony included the signing of handover documents, the symbolic transfer of authority represented by the NSCDC flag, and a series of commemorative photographs involving officers and invited guests.
