Kebbi State Trains Local Government Chairmen on Security Enhancement

Sani Tureta

In a bold move aimed at strengthening security across the state, the Kebbi State Government has launched a new initiative to train Local Government Chairmen on how to enhance security in their communities.
Themed, ‘Predictive and Community Policing to increase Security in Kebbi State,’’ the programme, put together by the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, is aimed at empowering local leaders with the knowledge and tools they need to take proactive measures in maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of their people.

According to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Abubakar Garba Dustin Mari, “The Kebbi State Government recognized that security challenges are most effectively tackled at the grassroots level, where local government chairmen can act as direct links between the people and state authorities. As part of the training programme, these chairmen will undergo specialized workshops aimed at improving their understanding of security strategies, crisis management, and community engagement.”

The Commissioner adds, “We are partnering with renowned communications firm, Shegs Communications Limited, and we have engaged the service of security experts and special operations consultants that will train our local government chairmen. We strongly believe that this programme will go along way in tackling the challenges of security lapse in the state.”

The convener of the initiative and Governor of the State, Nasir Idris, emphasised the importance of community-driven security efforts: “We believe that the strength of our security system lies within our communities. Our local government chairmen are key players who can work with law enforcement, vigilantes, and the citizens themselves to prevent crime and maintain peace.

“Our administration has long believed in a multi-faceted approach to solving security issues, and this new training initiative represents a significant step forward. By combining the power of local leadership with strategic security policies, the state is poised to tackle its challenges head-on.”

The Chief Storyteller/CEO, Shegs Communications Ltd, Mr. Segun Adebowale, said the training sessions will cover a range of topics crucial for effective security management.

“Key areas of focus include collaboration with security agencies, community policing and intelligence gathering, emergency response amongst others. The Governor is desirous of shaping a Safer Kebbi and with this proactive approach, Kebbi State is not just reacting to security concerns but taking charge of its own destiny. The collaboration between local leaders, security agencies, and the people of Kebbi is a model for other states grappling with similar challenges, demonstrating that security can be achieved through collective effort, education, and local leadership,” Mr. Adebowale added.

The Commissioner for Local Government said the ripple effect of the training is expected to be profound: “By strengthening the capabilities of local government chairmen, the Kebbi State Government aims to not only reduce crime rates but also instill a sense of ownership among citizens toward the safety of their communities. Residents, knowing that their leaders are actively working to address security concerns, are more likely to cooperate with local law enforcement agencies and participate in community efforts aimed at safeguarding their neighbourhoods.”