October 1: Sokoto Seeks Stronger Partnership Against Insecurity

Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has called for stronger cooperation across all levels of government to tackle banditry and other forms of criminality affecting parts of the country. 

Aliyu made the call in his Independence Day message to the people of Sokoto State on Thursday, as Nigeria marked its 66th anniversary of independence.

The governor commended the Nigerian Government for its support in the fight against banditry in the state, saying sustained collaboration between both levels of government was essential to restoring lasting peace.

Aliyu said the Sokoto State Government and the Nigerian Government had maintained strong cooperation in efforts to protect lives and property, expressing optimism that continued coordination would help end insecurity in the state.

He said his administration had provided logistics, vehicles and other equipment to strengthen the operations of conventional security agencies.

According to the governor, the state government had procured more than 200 patrol vehicles, two bulletproof vehicles for the emirates, 100 Buffalo armoured personnel carriers, 200 motorcycles, 3,200 security hardware, 2,000 bulletproof vests and 200 night-vision goggles since he assumed office.

He added that the administration had also supplied 100 thermal-vision scopes and other security equipment, while facilitating the full operationalisation of the Nigerian Air Force Base in Sokoto.

Aliyu further said the government had upgraded the Department of State Services tracker from 4G to 5G technology as part of measures to strengthen security operations.

The governor also highlighted the establishment of the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps, saying the government had procured 40 Hilux vans and 700 motorcycles for the corps.

Other measures, he said, included facilitating the establishment of a military barracks in Illela and a Police Mobile Barracks at Tara Village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area.

Aliyu reassured residents that his administration remained committed to tackling banditry and urged them to support government and security efforts aimed at restoring peace across the state.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s independence, the governor paid tribute to the country’s founding fathers and urged citizens to draw inspiration from their patriotism and sacrifices.

He acknowledged the challenges Nigeria had faced since independence, while noting that the country had also recorded significant achievements over the years.

Aliyu expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to make progress through renewed commitment and collective action.

He also called on Nigerians to support, cooperate with and pray for the country’s leaders to enable them to effectively discharge their responsibilities.

The governor wished Nigerians a peaceful 66th Independence Anniversary.