Grand Imam of Oyo visits NSCDC, reaffirms commitment to peace, security collaboration

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

The Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam (Barrister) Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening collaboration between religious institutions and security agencies to enhance peace and stability in Oyo State.

Akeugberu stated this during a courtesy visit to the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, Commandant Augustine Padonu, at the Command Headquarters in Agodi, Ibadan.

The visit, according to the cleric, was part of efforts to deepen community-security relations and promote stronger partnerships in addressing emerging security challenges in the state.

Speaking during the engagement, the Grand Imam stressed the importance of synergy between faith-based organisations and security agencies, noting that such cooperation is essential for maintaining societal harmony and preventing conflict.

He commended the NSCDC for its dedication to protecting lives, property, and critical national assets, describing the Corps as a key pillar in Nigeria’s internal security framework.

Akeugberu also assured the command of continued support from the Muslim community, particularly in areas of intelligence sharing, peaceful coexistence, and proactive conflict resolution.

In his remarks, Commandant Augustine Padonu appreciated the visit, describing it as timely and impactful.

He reiterated the NSCDC’s readiness to collaborate with religious leaders, traditional institutions, and community stakeholders to strengthen grassroots security awareness and improve public trust.

Padonu emphasised that sustainable peace can only be achieved through trust, cooperation, and mutual respect among all stakeholders.

He assured residents that the NSCDC would remain committed to protecting citizens, safeguarding critical infrastructure, and maintaining law and order across Oyo State.

The visit ended with both parties expressing commitment to deepening collaboration for the collective security, peace, and development of Oyo State.