…as Former Governor calls for integration of new recruits into military
By Umar Akilu Majeri
The Kano State Government has graduated 2,000 new neighborhood guards.
This is as the Former Governor of Kano State and National Leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso called on the Federal Government to integrate the 2,000 newly graduated members of the Kano State Neighborhood Corps into the Nigerian military to bolster national security.
Addressing the gathering, the former governor commended the Kano State Government for its foresight in training the youths, noting that the graduates are physically and mentally prepared to tackle security challenges.
He argued that the Federal Government should seize this opportunity to convert the well-trained personnel into military service, citing a severe manpower deficit in the nation’s armed forces.
According to Kwankwaso, Nigeria currently requires no fewer than one million additional security personnel to adequately protect the lives and properties of its citizens.
He observed that the inability of the Federal Government to fully secure the nation has compelled states such as Kano, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Katsina to establish their own security outfits to protect their communities.
He maintained that while the primary responsibility of protecting lives and property lies with the Federal Government, state-led initiatives have become necessary interventions.
Kwankwaso also reaffirmed his stance on the traditional leadership of the state, declaring emphatically that Muhammadu Sanusi II is the only recognized Emir of Kano State.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, lauded the state government for establishing the Neighborhood Corps.
He described the initiative as a timely intervention that would enhance safety across the metropolis and rural areas.
The Emir charged the people of Kano to be security-conscious and to actively assist the new operatives by sharing credible intelligence.
He advised residents to report any suspicious individuals or criminal elements to security agencies, noting that public trust and cooperation are essential for a secure society.
Emir Sanusi called on governors of neighboring states to emulate Kano’s model and collaborate on border security.
He emphasized that safeguarding the Northern region requires a joint effort to secure border lines and prevent the movement of criminals between states.