President Bola Tinubu has extended the tenure of Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi as Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for another five years, with the new term taking effect from February 27, 2026, in Abuja.
The decision was announced on Saturday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, shortly after Audi completed his first five-year term.
Audi’s initial tenure began on March 1, 2021, following his appointment by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
His first term ended last Friday, the same day he took part in activities marking the 2026 World Civil Defence Day at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja. With the renewal approved, he is expected to resume duties on Monday under a fresh mandate.
According to the Presidency, the extension is aimed at ensuring continuity in the leadership of the Corps as the country reviews its security structure.
The President directed Audi to strengthen the agency’s role within the broader security framework, especially at a time when the police are concentrating on tackling crimes such as banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.
Dr. Audi was born on September 30, 1967, in Laminga Town in Nasarawa Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. He attended Teachers’ College in Jengre, Plateau State, where he earned a Grade II Teachers’ Certificate in 1987.
He later obtained a Nigeria Certificate in Education from the College of Education, Akwanga, in 1992. He proceeded to Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, graduating in 1995 with a degree in Physical and Health Education.
Before the renewal of his appointment, there had been reports of tension within the Corps regarding the leadership transition. SaharaReporters had earlier reported that Audi did not hand over to the most senior Deputy Commandant-General after reaching retirement age and completing his first tenure.
The officer next in line was identified as Deputy Commandant-General Nnamdi Nwinyi, who heads the Intelligence and Investigation department at the