By Adesakin Adefemi
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has strongly denied allegations of withholding staff promotion and salary arrears, describing the claims as baseless and malicious. The denial comes after some personnel alleged non-payment of promotion arrears spanning 2022 to 2024, sparking concerns and dissatisfaction among the ranks.
According to the NSCDC Spokesman, Afolabi Babawale, the Commandant General, Abubakar Audi, does not have control over payment of salary or promotion arrears. He stated that payments are handled by the Presidential Committee on Arrears, chaired by the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation and the Accountant General of the Federation, emphasizing that the NSCDC leadership is not responsible for the delays.
Babawale explained that the current leadership inherited five years of unpaid salary arrears in 2021 and made significant strides in clearing arrears from 2015 to 2019, benefiting over 37,000 personnel. This effort demonstrates the leadership’s commitment to addressing the issue and improving the welfare of NSCDC personnel.
However, the NSCDC said allegations of non-payment are false, baseless, and malicious, and are intended to tarnish the reputation of the leadership. Babawale appealed to personnel to remain calm and patient, assuring them of continued engagement with the government on releasing funds and addressing their concerns.
The 2023-2024 arrears are yet to be approved, requiring presidential approval and budgetary release. This process is ongoing, and the NSCDC is working diligently to ensure timely payment of the outstanding arrears.
The 2025 promotion examination results were released in December 2025, and processing for budget inclusion is ongoing. The NSCDC assured personnel that their promotions will be processed accordingly, and they will be informed of the progress made.
The Corps urged the public to disregard the allegations, calling them a campaign of calumny aimed at maligning the leadership. The NSCDC remains committed to transparency and accountability, and will continue to work towards improving the welfare of its personnel.
The development highlights the challenges faced by security agencies in Nigeria, and the NSCDC is working to address these issues and improve personnel welfare. The Corps is committed to maintaining peace and stability in the country, and appeals to the public to support its efforts.
