Katsina State Governor, Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda, has made a compelling case for the establishment of a dedicated military outfit in the southern part of the state, as a strategic measure to tackle the severe security challenges plaguing the region. This call was made during a courtesy visit by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, at the Government House in Katsina.
Governor Radda, in his remarks, emphasized the urgency of addressing the security threats that have disproportionately affected the southern areas of Katsina State. He highlighted that the state government has been proactive in its approach to combating insecurity, having already established the “Community Security Watch” initiative. This local security outfit, he noted, has been instrumental in complementing the efforts of existing security agencies on the ground.
“Our administration is fully committed to ensuring the safety of our citizens,” Governor Radda stated. “In addition to the 1,466 members of the Community Security Watch currently active, we are finalizing plans to train another set of personnel who will operate across ten additional local government areas. This is part of our broader strategy to fortify security at the grassroots level.”
Governor Radda also introduced the Community Development Program, a novel initiative aimed at involving local communities in the state’s security operations. The program mandates the formation of a 25-member committee in each community, tasked with identifying areas of need and exposing criminal elements, along with those who abet them. This, the governor believes, will empower communities to play a more active role in safeguarding their neighborhoods and restoring peace.
In his address, General Christopher Gwabin Musa commended the governor’s efforts and the establishment of the Community Security Watch, acknowledging its significant impact in bolstering security across the state. “The idea of a community-driven security initiative is commendable,” General Musa said. “It recognizes the reality that our security forces cannot be everywhere at once, and local involvement is crucial in the fight against insecurity.”
General Musa, who is on a tour of Northwestern Nigeria to assess the security situation, assured the people of Katsina State that efforts are being intensified to restore peace and stability across the region. “With the support of all citizens, and by the grace of God, we will overcome these challenges,” he affirmed.
During his visit, the Chief of Defence Staff also took time to express his condolences to the government and people of Katsina State over the recent passing of Hajiya Dada Habiba Yar’adua, the mother of late President Umaru Musa Yar’adua. He prayed for her soul to be granted Al-Janna and for her family to find strength in this difficult time.
General Musa concluded by appealing for continued cooperation from the citizens of Katsina State, emphasizing that the collective effort of the community, alongside the military, is essential for achieving lasting peace in the state and the broader Northwest region.
Governor Radda’s call for a specialized military presence in Southern Katsina marks a decisive step in his administration’s ongoing battle against insecurity, signaling a strong commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of all Katsina residents. As the state navigates these turbulent times, the partnership between local communities and the military will be crucial in charting a course towards peace and stability.
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