Table of Contents
- Governor's Warning
- Lecture at National Institute for Security Studies
- Caution Against Unregulated Peace Deals
- Security Approach Outlined
- Establishment of Peace Committees
- Security Challenges Identified
- Collaboration for Security
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has cautioned that negotiating peace with armed groups while allowing them to keep their weapons undermines state authority and hinders long-term stability.
Lawal made this statement on Wednesday during a lecture at the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) in Abuja, where he spoke to participants of the Executive Intelligence Management Course (EIMC) 18 on the theme, “Non-state Actors in Security Management: Issues, Challenges, and Prospects for Peace and Development in Africa – A Zamfara State Perspective.”
He warned against unregulated peace agreements in the North-West, emphasizing that dialogue must be accompanied by disarmament and reconciliation.
“Permitting armed groups to retain their weapons while negotiating peace merely prolongs violence and jeopardizes state sovereignty,” the governor stated.
Lawal outlined his administration’s security strategy, which includes enhancing coordination among security agencies through a unified State Security Council, establishing Community Protection Guards (CPG), and improving intelligence sharing between local entities and law enforcement agencies.
He mentioned that peace committees have been set up in all local government areas to mediate conflicts, rebuild trust, and foster community involvement in security initiatives.
According to him, the state's security challenges arise from economic deprivation, the proliferation of arms, weak traditional structures, and youth unemployment.
Lawal added that Zamfara is collaborating with the Office of the National Security Adviser and international partners, including Colombia, on initiatives designed to prevent and counter violent extremism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Governor Dauda Lawal's stance on negotiating with armed groups?
Governor Dauda Lawal believes that negotiating peace with armed groups while allowing them to keep their weapons undermines state authority and delays lasting stability.
What measures is the Zamfara State government taking to address security challenges?
The Zamfara State government is enhancing coordination among security agencies, establishing Community Protection Guards, improving intelligence sharing, and creating peace committees to mediate conflicts and promote community participation in security efforts.
How is Zamfara State collaborating with external partners?
Zamfara is working with the Office of the National Security Adviser and international partners, including Colombia, on programs aimed at preventing and countering violent extremism.
