…for proper security architecture in North.
by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has called for a robust collaboration among Northern Governors, in order to stem the tide, following the escalation of security challenges in Nigeria’s Northern States, and be determined to proffer lasting solution.
Governor Mutfwang emphasized the need for “intercommunity vigilance” to foster a secure environment conducive to economic growth and development.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps at Giginya Memorial Stadium, Sokoto, recently, Mutfwang observed that, “Years of peaceful coexistence have been undermined by mutual suspicion, eroding our trust.”
He stressed that, “The time is now for us to unite against criminality, irrespective of background, religion, or beliefs. We must uphold truth, justice, equity, and fairness. I am confident that our collective efforts will overcome this adversity,” he stated.
Also speaking, Sokoto State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, highlighted the necessity of the Community Guard Corps “in response to rampant banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities that have claimed lives and displaced families.”
According to him, “The state’s unique terrain necessitates an alternative to conventional security measures. The new corps will provide critical intelligence support to established security forces,” he noted.
Those, who graced the ceremony, include: His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alh. Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar; Governor of Katsina State and Chairman Northwest Governor’s Forum, Dikko Umar Radda; Gen. Aliyu Mohammed Gusau; Governor of Bauchi State, Sen. Bala Mohammed; Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia; Governor of Zamfara State, Dr. Dauda Lawal; and Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Accompanying Governor Mutfwang were notable figures such as Senator AVM Napoleon Bali (Rtd), Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Brig-Gen. Gakji Shipi (Rtd); Secretary-General Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Dr. Salim Musa Umar; ALGON Chairman Plateau State and Transition Committee Chairman, Wase LGA, Alh. Hamisu Anani, and Mr. Yarry Kumchi, among others.