By: Abdullahi Inuwa
…..Kebbi Governor Vows Sustained Backing for Security Agencies to Combat Banditry and Cross-Border Crimes
Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in their efforts to safeguard lives and property across the state.
The governor made the pledge on Tuesday while receiving the Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) supervising the North-West Zone and overseeing Administration and Finance, DIG Suleiman Muhammad Abdul, during a courtesy visit to the Government House in Birnin Kebbi.
Governor Idris said maintaining peace and security remains a top priority of his administration, stressing that no meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of fear and instability.
He expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police for fulfilling his promise to dispatch a high-powered delegation to Kebbi State to assess the prevailing security situation and identify areas requiring additional intervention.
According to the governor, the visit demonstrates the commitment of the police leadership to strengthening security operations and addressing emerging threats confronting communities in the state.
Governor Idris also commended the Commissioner of Police and officers serving in Kebbi State for their dedication, professionalism and swift response to security challenges.
He noted that security personnel in the state have continued to demonstrate courage and sacrifice in the face of evolving threats, often putting their lives on the line to protect citizens.
“The government deeply appreciates the commitment and sacrifices of our security personnel. Their efforts have contributed immensely to maintaining relative peace and stability in many parts of the state,” he said.
The governor highlighted the unique security challenges facing Kebbi due to its strategic location and shared borders with the Republic of Niger and the Republic of Benin.
He explained that the porous nature of the international borders has made some communities vulnerable to incursions by criminal elements, including armed bandits and members of the notorious Lakurawa group.
Governor Idris, however, clarified that Kebbi State does not serve as a base for bandit camps, noting that most attacks are carried out by criminals who infiltrate border communities from neighbouring territories before retreating after launching their operations.
“Our challenge is largely linked to cross-border criminal activities. These elements move into our communities from outside the state, carry out attacks and quickly retreat to their hideouts beyond our borders,” he explained.
Despite the challenges, the governor expressed optimism that the findings and recommendations emerging from the DIG’s security assessment would strengthen ongoing efforts to improve safety and enhance intelligence-driven operations across the state.
He assured the visiting police delegation that the state government would continue to provide the necessary support required to enable security agencies perform their duties effectively.
Earlier, DIG Suleiman Muhammad Abdul said his visit was on the directive of the Inspector-General of Police to convey the appreciation of the Nigeria Police Force to Governor Idris for his consistent support to security operations in Kebbi State.
The senior police officer praised the governor for providing operational vehicles and Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), describing the intervention as a major boost to policing activities and crime-fighting operations.
According to him, the support has significantly enhanced the operational capacity of the police and strengthened their ability to respond swiftly to security threats.
“The Inspector-General of Police sincerely appreciates the support and commitment shown by Governor Nasir Idris toward improving security in Kebbi State. The provision of operational vehicles and armoured carriers has greatly assisted our operations,” the DIG stated.
He added that the visit also served as an opportunity to sympathise with the government and people of Kebbi State over the loss of lives caused by bandit attacks and other security incidents.
DIG Abdul extended condolences to families who lost loved ones, including security personnel who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending communities from criminal elements.
He assured the governor that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to working closely with the state government and other security agencies to address security challenges and restore lasting peace in affected areas.
The meeting underscored the growing collaboration between the Kebbi State Government and security agencies in tackling banditry, cross-border crimes and other emerging threats.
Security analysts believe the continued partnership between the government and law enforcement agencies will play a crucial role in strengthening intelligence gathering, improving operational efficiency and enhancing public safety across the state.
With renewed assurances of support from both the state government and police authorities, residents are hopeful that ongoing security measures will further curb criminal activities and create a safer environment for economic and social development.
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