Katsina Recruits 6,652 Ward Heads To Combat Banditry

The Katsina State government 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 courageous and essential to the safety and wellbeing of Katsina communities.

“First, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you who are graduating today. Your dedication, sacrifice and commitment to serve our communities are commendable,” he said.

The Community Watch Corps was launched over a year ago, rooted in the principle of active community participation and collaboration.

According to the governor, the programme’s mission is to empower the people to take ownership of their safety and well-being. “The government believes that a community-driven approach would serve best in tackling the ongoing crisis,” he explained, adding that the approach involves transitioning from purely military tactics to methods centred 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.

Katsina has seen a significant decrease in crime and recorded numerous successes in neutralising bandit cells in the past one year.

“Communities that were once gripped by fear are now experiencing a renewed sense of security and stability,” the governor noted, attributing these successes to the cooperation between residents and security agencies.

This partnership has been instrumental in enhancing intelligence sharing and reducing response times.

“The government has worked hand-in-hand with the police, military and other security agencies to improve response and effectively tackle threats,” Radda said.

He acknowledged the Nigerian Army’s efforts in confronting bandit groups directly in their strongholds and praised the police for working closely with the community to neutralise threats.