In a bold and determined initiative to combat banditry, the Katsina State government said it has recruited 6,652 ward heads, village and district leaders, as well as religious leaders to fortify the state’s fight against insecurity.
Governor Umar Radda announced the new recruitment during the graduation ceremony of the second batch of 650 Katsina Community Watch Corps, underscoring a community-driven approach to security.
Addressing the graduates, Governor Radda expressed gratitude and pride in their commitment, describing their roles as not only courageous but essential to the safety and wellbeing of Katsina communities.
According to the Governor, the mission of the programme is to empower the people to take ownership of their safety and well-being.
“The government believes that a community-driven approach serves best in tackling the ongoing crisis,” he explained, adding that the approach involves transitioning from purely military tactics to methods centered on community involvement.
The new recruits, including ward and religious leaders, will work alongside local residents to help reduce crime rates and restore peace to previously volatile areas.
Over the past year, Katsina State has recorded significant decrease in crime and achieved numerous successes in neutralising bandit cells.
“Communities that were once gripped by fear are now experiencing a renewed sense of security and stability,” Radda noted, attributing these successes to the cooperation between residents and security agencies.
He said that this partnership has been instrumental in enhancing intelligence sharing and reducing response time during critical instances such as threats.
“The government has worked hand-in-hand with the police, military, and other security agencies to improve response and effectively tackle threats,” Radda said.
The governor acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian Army towards confronting bandit groups directly in their strongholds and commended the police for working closely with the community to neutralise threats.
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