Why we should unite in fighting insecurity — Governor Aliyu to northern states

Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu called for unified action among northern state governors to address the persistent security issues plaguing the region during the inauguration of the Community Guards Corps (CGC) in Sokoto on Saturday.

The governor highlighted the importance of collaboration in confronting security challenges, as the agile youths of Sokoto received three months of training organized by the state government to enhance security measures.

Governor Aliyu also commissioned 30 Hilux vehicles, motorcycles, and other essential tools for the CGC to bolster their operations across the state.

He emphasized the significance of collective support for traditional security agencies in tackling the prevailing security concerns at the national level.

Expressing concern over the frequent attacks by bandits in Sokoto State, Governor Aliyu lamented the resulting casualties, displacements, and abductions.

Identifying armed banditry as a major obstacle to the region's development, the governor appealed for concerted efforts to combat the menace and ensure the safety and security of the Northern region.

He said the initiative by different state governments was meant to complement the activities of statutory security agencies, saying that community policing remained the best strategy to edge out criminals.

”I want to assure the residents that we are on track and we will continue to fulfil our pledge toward ensuring a secured and habitable environment for all,” he said.

While assuring more support to CGC personnel, the governor tasked the corps with trust and selfless service to their nation.

In his remark, the chairman of North-West state governors and Katsina state governor, Dikko Radda, admonished the trained community guards to be responsible, committed and fearless in the discharge of their duties.

Radda called on President Bola Tunubu to support the states that established CGC to effectively combat insecurity bedevilling their areas.

Special guest, Retired Gen. Aliyu Gusau, described the initiative as commendable, adding that security issues are supposed to be a collective responsibility.

Gusau urged stakeholders to support the initiative to enable the corps to achieve the set goals and objectives.

Former Sokoto state governor, Aliyu Wamakko, commended the resilience of Aliyu in accomplishing his mission for the corps.

He also lauded his efforts in improving citizens’ well-being and encouraged him to sustain the tempo.

Wamako described the collaboration of northern state governors as a struggle for the betterment of their people.

He enjoined the trained corps to uphold and justify the trust bestowed on them by ensuring diligent service to the state and the country at large.

Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, assured traditional rulers’ support to enable the corps to achieve the desired success.

Abubakar advised authorities to consider joining kinetic and non-kinetic strategies in confronting security challenges.

The occasion was attended by governors of Benue, Plateau, Bauchi, Jigawa, Kano, Kebbi and Zamfara states, among other distinguished personalities.