Gov. Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State, has identified collective action as a viable tool to combat banditry and other security challenges bedeviling Nigeria.
Aliyu made this known in his message to mark the 64th Independence Day celebration on Tuesday in Sokoto.
The governor urged citizens to complement the efforts of both federal and state governments in safeguarding lives and property of citizens.
He highlighted the significant investment made by his administration in bolstering security since assuming office, including the restoration and increase of monthly allowances for security operatives stationed in high-risk areas.
“When we came into office, the monthly allowances for security personnel deployed to flashpoints had been stopped.
“We did not only restore the payment but also increased the amount to further boost the morale of the personnel,” the governor said.
Aliyu also revealed that his administration had procured 100 vehicles, which were distributed to various security agencies across the state to help curb the activities of bandits.
“Additionally, the state government established a Community Guard Corps (CGC) to support conventional security forces in protecting rural communities.
“All these measures are part of our modest efforts to fulfill our commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property,” he added.
The governor expressed confidence that the combined efforts of the federal and state governments would soon overcome the nation’s security challenges.
He called on all Nigerians to unite in supporting the government’s efforts to resolve the current insecurity and other developmental challenges.
While congratulating Nigerians on the 64th anniversary of the country’s independence, Aliyu urged citizens to remember the struggles of the nation’s founding fathers, which led to the attainment of independence in 1960.
He also paid tribute to the country’s fallen heroes for their sacrifices in maintaining Nigeria’s unity and sovereignty, while emphasising the need for citizens to protect and project the nation’s image at all times.