By: John Bassey, Kebbi.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for the establishment of community-based security committees across Nigeria to enhance peace and stability.

Speaking on Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi at the Northern Traditional Rulers Council (NTRC) General Assembly held at the Presidential Banquet Hall, the President, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila , said the committees would foster dialogue, conflict resolution, and security collaboration among communities, traditional rulers, and security agencies.

With the theme “Strengthening Community Collaboration for Lasting Peace in Northern Nigeria,” Tinubu emphasized that such committees would also promote interfaith dialogue and cooperation, build trust among religious groups, and reduce communal tensions.

The President further highlighted the importance of empowering women and youth through education, economic opportunities, and leadership training to prevent violent extremism. He stressed that community participation in decision-making processes is key to building trust and sustaining peace.

Tinubu commended Governor Nasir Idris for his administration’s peace-building efforts in Kebbi State and assured him of the Federal Government’s continued support.

The Sultan of Sokoto and Chairman of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, lauded the Nigerian Armed Forces for their sacrifices in preserving peace and unity. He urged citizens to support security agencies and refrain from making demoralizing comments on social media, noting that insecurity is a global challenge.

The Sultan also praised Governor Idris and the people of Kebbi State for their hospitality, describing the state as a model of peace and stability. He said the meeting was timely given the nation’s security challenges, including banditry, Boko Haram, and ISWAP insurgency.

In his remarks, the Shehu of Borno underscored the need for collaboration among traditional rulers, communities, and government to sustain resilience and support ongoing military efforts.

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, thanked Nigerians for their support and reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces to restoring peace nationwide. He described Kebbi State as a home to him.

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Atiku Bagudu, also emphasized the need for national unity in supporting the military, urging citizens to appreciate their efforts in safeguarding lives and property.

In his address, Governor Nasir Idris (Kauran Gwandu) commended the NTRC for choosing Kebbi as host, describing the theme as timely and relevant. He reaffirmed his government’s unwavering support for traditional rulers, whom he described as vital partners in promoting peace and unity.

Governor Idris noted that his administration had provided new jeeps for all traditional rulers, funded the renovation and furnishing of palaces, and purchased over 90 vehicles for security agencies, among other logistics support. He said traditional leaders are regularly involved in governance and decision-making at the state level.

Representatives of the Inspector General of Police and Director-General of the DSS also acknowledged the indispensable role of traditional institutions in achieving national peace and security.