…the NSCDC Award was not incidental but earned through years of dedication.
LAGOS, Nigeria — The iNews Times | The celebration of an NSCDC Award took centre stage as a Superintendent of Corps with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Bayelsa State Command, Anthony Idigo, pledged to redouble his efforts and enhance his service delivery following international recognition.
Idigo received a prestigious leadership award from the Chartered Institute of Marine, Port and Terminal Management Professionals, USA, in recognition of his professional excellence and contributions to service. The honour has since drawn commendation from colleagues, associates, and community leaders who described it as well deserved.
The award was presented by Mr. Patrick Mark, Regional Director of Training for the Chartered Institute in Nigeria, during a ceremony held at BW Starfire Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, on March 28. The recognition was later celebrated in Ekeremor, Bayelsa State, where Idigo hails from, attracting community admiration and goodwill messages.
Speaking shortly after receiving the NSCDC Award, Idigo expressed gratitude to the institute for finding him worthy of the honour and pledged to renew his commitment to exemplary leadership within the corps.
He assured that the recognition would serve as motivation rather than complacency.
“I feel blessed that a nobody like me has been recognized by this great institute,” he said.
“What this honour means is that I have to work harder and show more commitment and dedication to my duties as an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.”
Addressed traditionally as “Asiakpo Nnu Anam,” Idigo further pledged to fly the Nigerian flag higher at international levels, stating that the award places greater responsibility on him to represent the country with integrity and professionalism.
He emphasized that recognition of this magnitude is not merely personal but reflective of the institution he serves and the mentors who shaped his career.
The awardee paid special tribute to his commanders and colleagues within the NSCDC, acknowledging their support, guidance, and encouragement throughout his years of service.
According to him, collective teamwork and disciplined leadership remain critical pillars in achieving operational success within security institutions.
Idigo also expressed deep appreciation to his family for standing by him throughout his professional journey.
“Finally, I return all glory to God Almighty for this award and dedicate it to my wife, Chief Mrs. Iyom Carol Mma Iyke Idigo, Iyom UgoMary 1 Na Anam, for her unshakeable support in my career, life, and family,” he said.
“I pray for God’s continued blessings, protection, and grace upon her and our family in Jesus Christ’s name, Amen.”
The emotional tone of his remarks resonated strongly with attendees, many of whom described the moment as inspiring and reflective of disciplined public service.
Earlier, Director of Training, Mr. Patrick Mark, described Idigo as a long-time friend and colleague within the Chartered Institute who has consistently distinguished himself in his chosen career as an NSCDC officer.
Mark noted that the NSCDC Award was not incidental but earned through years of dedication, integrity, and professional consistency.
“Idigo is a dedicated, tested, and trusted professional. He is a leader who needs to be motivated by this kind of award to enable him to do even more,” Mark stated.
He further emphasized that leadership recognition serves as both reward and responsibility, encouraging recipients to expand their impact beyond their immediate circles.
Observers at the ceremony described the event as a significant morale booster, not only for the award recipient but also for other officers within the NSCDC who continue to work diligently in safeguarding critical national assets and maintaining civil security.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps plays a crucial role in infrastructure protection, crisis management, disaster response, and the safeguarding of national assets. Awards such as this, stakeholders say, help reinforce professionalism and commitment within the ranks.
Community leaders in Ekeremor, Bayelsa State, where the award was also celebrated, praised Idigo for bringing honour to the area. They expressed hope that his achievement would inspire younger generations to pursue careers rooted in discipline, integrity, and national service.
Security analysts also note that international recognition of Nigerian officers contributes positively to the country’s institutional image, especially at a time when global standards in maritime, port, and terminal management increasingly intersect with national security operations.
The NSCDC Award, therefore, represents more than a ceremonial gesture. It reflects growing collaboration between professional institutes and national security institutions aimed at strengthening leadership capacity and operational excellence.
As Idigo returns to his command in Bayelsa State, expectations remain high that his renewed pledge of commitment will translate into strengthened service delivery, enhanced discipline, and sustained professionalism within his jurisdiction.
For many observers, the award signals that diligence in public service continues to attract recognition beyond national borders and that dedication to duty remains a path to distinction.
