The appeal was made during a courtesy visit by NSCDC Commandant-General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, at the Government House in Abakaliki on Friday.

Nwifuru highlighted the state’s inadequate security manpower, noting that military personnel are currently filling roles meant for the NSCDC due to insufficient staffing. 

He expressed alarm over unregulated mining activities, particularly the extraction of gold disguised as lead and zinc operations, which he said thrives due to limited oversight.

The governor submitted a list of 194 Ebonyi indigenes for NSCDC recruitment, arguing that their inclusion would bolster security, curb youth unemployment, and enhance accountability in the mining sector. 

He pointed out that federal control over mining licenses restricts the state’s enforcement capabilities, making additional NSCDC personnel critical.

“We don’t issue mining licenses; that’s federal jurisdiction. Without enough manpower, our hands are tied,” Nwifuru said, pledging to provide 10 Hilux vehicles as logistical support if the requested officers are deployed.

In response, Prof. Audi acknowledged Ebonyi’s security challenges and outlined the NSCDC’s efforts to secure mining zones and critical infrastructure nationwide. 

He revealed that the Corps has closed over 600 illegal mining sites and arrested more than 500 suspects, including foreigners, with many facing prosecution. 

Audi also highlighted the risks faced by operatives, referencing the recent killing of eight officers in Edo State during a rescue mission.

The visit, part of Audi’s nationwide tour to evaluate NSCDC operations, also saw Governor Nwifuru inaugurate Saint Francis Chapel at the NSCDC State Command Headquarters. 

Built under State Commandant Mr. Francis Nnadi, the chapel aims to foster ethical conduct and support the state’s development goals.

Commandant Nnadi reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to collaborate with the Ebonyi government to tackle security challenges, particularly in high-risk communities.