Commandant Augustine Padonu has resumed duty as new Commandant of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Commandant for Oyo state Command.
The press statement signed by Oyo state NSCDC Command Public Relations Officers, DSC Samuel Opebiyi, affirmed the development.
A copy of the statement made available to journalists in Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo State on Wednesday stated that the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, today, Tuesday, 9th January, 2024, witnessed a smooth transition of leadership with the official handover to Commandant Augustine Padonu in a Change of Command ceremony, held at the State Command Headquarters, Agodi, Ibadan, which marked a new chapter for the Corps in the State.
The statement further stated that the ceremony commenced with a tour of all Departments, Units, and other facilities within the Command Headquarters, led by the outgoing Commandant, Commandant (Dr.) Michael Akintayo Adaralewa. This was followed by a brief meeting with Heads of Departments, Heads of Units, Area Commanders, Sectional Heads, and Unit Commanders.
During the meeting, Commandant Adaralewa expressed his confidence in Commandant Padonu’s ability to lead the Oyo State Command effectively. He highlighted the array of formidable officers holding various positions within the Command and emphasized the boost in morale resulting from recent promotions under the leadership of the Commandant-General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi (mni, OFR).
Commandant Adaralewa encouraged the management team to prioritize the interests of the Corps above their personal interests and extended a call for their support to the incoming Commandant. He then formally presented the Handover Note to Commandant Padonu, symbolizing the transfer of responsibilities. Dr. Adaralewa will now continue his distinguished service by taking on the leadership of the Osun State Command.
Commandant Padonu graciously accepted the handover note and the mantle of leadership. He acknowledged the legacy of his predecessor and underscored his dedication to building upon the established foundation. He emphasized the importance of teamwork and collaboration, pledging to work hand-in-hand with all personnel to further enhance the Command’s efficiency and effectiveness in safeguarding the lives and property of the people of Oyo State.
The ceremony culminated in the symbolic exchange of flags. Commandant Adaralewa inspected the Guard of Honour for the last time in Oyo State Command, followed by the passing of the NSCDC flag to Commandant Padonu. The new Commandant then assumed the role of inspecting the Guard of Honour after the exit of the outgone Commandant, marking his official commencement of command.
Commandant Padonu Augustine, a native of Badagry in Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos State, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. Having risen through the ranks since his enlistment in 2005, he boasts of a distinguished career marked by leadership positions across various departments and divisions within the NSCDC. His proven track record and commitment to security operations bode well for the future of the Oyo State Command.
He holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing from the Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State, in 2004 and a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Accounting from the University of Jos in 1996.
Commandant Padonu has served in various capacities within the NSCDC, including Head of Department (HOD) for Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) in Lagos State Command, and HOD for Intelligence and Investigation in Osun State Command. He has also held several positions as Area Commander and Divisional Officer in various formations across the country including the FCT Command, Lagos State Command and Kaduna State Command. Commandant Padonu is known for his strong leadership skills, strategic planning abilities and commitment to excellence.
Beyond his impressive career progression, Commandant Padonu brings a refined skillset honed through diverse training programs. He boasts certifications in areas like Inter-agency Cooperation and Conflict Resolution, Small Arms Training, Leadership Development and Enforcement and Monitoring Course, demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning and adaptability. These comprehensive trainings have equipped him with the necessary expertise to navigate complex security challenges and collaborate effectively within a dynamic field.
NSCDC, Oyo State Command looks forward to working under the leadership of Commandant Augustine Padonu and is confident that he will lead the Command to even greater heights. With a skilled and motivated leader at the helm and a dedicated team committed to excellence, the Command is poised to achieve even greater heights in upholding its crucial role of protecting the lives and property of the people of Oyo State.