By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
The Uniquely Neutral Rescue Services (UNRS 234 Nigeria Rescue Contingent), a voluntary non-governmental paramilitary regimental body under the watch of the United Nations, has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and properties across Nigeria.
In a telephone interview with The Merit Newspaper, the National Commanding Officer and Media Controller of UNRS 234 Nigeria Rescue Contingent, Amb. Dr. CSRM. Modupeola Johnleo, stated that the organization has been actively involved in several emergency rescue missions in recent months—particularly across Oyo State.
Dr. Johnleo highlighted that the organization’s recent intervention at the Alesinloye Market fire incident on Wednesday, March 11, 2025, was critical in averting a full-blown crisis. “Our rescue patrol team arrived at the scene early in the morning to safeguard properties and prevent further destruction and burglary. Despite the significant loss of goods worth hundreds of millions of naira, our swift action helped stabilize the situation,” she said.
The organization was also pivotal in the joint rescue operation during the petroleum tanker explosion near the Ibadan Toll-Gate on April 12, 2025. Collaborating with the Federal and State Fire Services, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies, UNRS played a vital role in rescuing lives and preventing further casualties and property loss.
Beyond these major operations, the organization has responded to several other emergencies in the region, including the Bodija disaster, the Sango Market fire outbreak, and recent accidents along the Ikire Road. In each instance, UNRS officers worked diligently to minimize loss and restore order.
With a national headquarters in Abuja and administrative presence in all 36 states, UNRS operates on the principles of nobility, dignity, moral conduct, and holistic service to God and mankind. Its stated core objective is to reduce risk and manage disasters effectively in collaboration with government agencies, religious bodies, civil societies, and patriotic individuals.
“We are a neutral rescue body devoted to humanitarian outreach and the enforcement of peace and order. Our work includes search-and-rescue missions, conflict resolution, and inter-religious cooperation,” Dr. Johnleo added.
The UNRS 234 Nigeria Rescue Contingent has also emphasized its role in education, arts, and sports as tools for peacebuilding, as well as fundraising for global humanitarian efforts.
The organization’s Oyo State command office is located at Army Barracks Road, IMG School 3, opposite Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), Mokola, Ibadan.
As Nigeria faces increasing environmental and urban risks, organizations like UNRS continue to prove indispensable in national disaster response and community resilience efforts.
Below is the footage of the UNRS 234 while engaging in activities of saving Lives
