By: John Bassey, Kebbi.
The Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has said that tackling the menace of insecurity should be a collective responsibility of all Nigerians regardless of tribal, religious or political leaning.
He stated this on Wednesday when he declared open a Security Summit organised by the Kebbi State Elders’ Forum held at the Presidential Lodge, Birnin Kebbi.
According to him, issue of security requires active participation of every stakeholders, hence the need for all hands to be on deck to bring an end to the lingering menace.
While describing the summit as critical, the governor observed that it will be a step forward towards improving the security situation in the state.
He stated that his administration was investing heavily in containing the security challenges in the state, assuring that the investment was yielding positive results.
“We are indeed, confronted with the emergency of Lakurawa sect of bandits. However, we are committed to protecting the lives of our teaming populace and we will sustain the tempo,” he promised.
The governor then admonished everyone to be vigilant and focus on some key areas to reduce the negative consequences of banditry.
He suggested engagement with local communities to identify the root causes of insecurity and develop targeted solutions, “this can be achieved by means of community engagement.
“There is also the need to enhance intelligence gathering and sharing among security agencies, this will help us stay ahead of threats.
“Government, security agencies and stakeholders must work together to develop effective strategies in the spirit of collaboration,” he advised.
The governor said that his administration had been working tirelessly to improve security in the state, adding that he had also reinvigorated various operations to combat insecurity.
“We are committed to providing full support to ensure community protection.
“We have mobilised resources to support the affected communities devastated by banditry,” he explained.
In his speech, the Chairman of the Forum, Maj. Gen. Mohammed Magoro (retired), who was represented by Justice Suleiman Mohamed-Ambursa (retired) said the aim of the summit was to address the critical security issues affecting the state and support the state government on way forward.
He then commended the Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris for his visionary leadership, tireless commitment to peace and security of the state.
“Kebbi State has witnessed remarkable progress in infrastructure, education, agriculture, health, women and youth empowerment.
“We are also pleased, your administration is consistently supporting security agencies, couple with deliberate investments in peace building initiative,” he noted.
He also lauded the state government for its unflinching commitment to the safety and wellbeing of the citizenry.
