Table of Contents
- Community-Based Security Committees
- Overview of the Meeting
- Empowerment Initiatives
- Support for the Armed Forces
- Importance of Collaboration
President Bola Tinubu has advocated for the creation of community-based security committees throughout Nigeria to enhance peace and stability at the grassroots level.
Tinubu made this appeal on Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi during the General Assembly of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council (NTRC), which was held at the Presidential Banquet Hall.
The President, represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, stated that this initiative would foster dialogue, conflict resolution, and coordination among traditional leaders, communities, and security agencies.
The meeting, themed “Strengthening Community Collaboration for Lasting Peace in Northern Nigeria,” gathered traditional leaders, senior security officials, and government representatives to discuss strategies for tackling insecurity in the region.
Tinubu noted that the proposed committees would also promote interfaith dialogue, encourage unity, and mitigate communal tensions. He stressed the importance of empowering women and youth through education, economic inclusion, and leadership training as essential measures to combat violent extremism.
The Sultan of Sokoto and Chairman of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, praised the Nigerian Armed Forces for their continuous efforts in maintaining national peace. He urged citizens to support security agencies and refrain from actions that could diminish their morale.
In his comments, the Shehu of Borno emphasized the necessity of ongoing collaboration among communities, traditional rulers, and the military to strengthen peace initiatives.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, reiterated the military’s dedication to restoring peace across the nation, while the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, called for national unity and public backing for the Armed Forces.
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State welcomed the Council members and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to traditional institutions as essential partners in fostering peace and stability.
The event was also attended by representatives from the Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), both of whom acknowledged the vital role of traditional rulers in enhancing security coordination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are community-based security committees?
Community-based security committees are local groups formed to enhance peace and security by promoting dialogue, conflict resolution, and collaboration among traditional leaders, communities, and security agencies.
Why is the empowerment of women and youth important?
Empowering women and youth through education, economic inclusion, and leadership training is crucial in preventing violent extremism and fostering a more stable society.
How can citizens support security agencies?
Citizens can support security agencies by cooperating with them, reporting suspicious activities, and avoiding actions that could undermine the morale of security personnel.