Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has expressed support for the creation of state police, citing it as a crucial solution to Nigeria’s security challenges. The governor made this statement during the graduation ceremony of 2,000 members of the Kano State Neighbourhood Watch Corps, held at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.
According to Yusuf, achieving peace and stability requires a combination of robust security measures, job creation, and economic opportunities. He emphasized that idle and unemployed youths are more prone to engaging in criminal activities. The governor believes that state police will complement existing security agencies, making it easier to address insecurity across the country.
The graduation of the 2,000 corps members marks a significant step towards strengthening community-based security in Kano State. The operatives, comprising 1,870 men and 130 women, have completed their training and are equipped to handle major security challenges in the state. They will be deployed across the state’s 44 local government areas and will be provided with 88 Hilux patrol vehicles and 440 motorcycles to ensure quick response and effective movement.
Yusuf stressed that decentralizing policing will enable states to respond more effectively to security threats, as they are better acquainted with their local environment, culture, and challenges. He noted that state police, if properly organized and regulated, will enhance security at the grassroots level and support federal agencies in maintaining law and order.
The governor praised existing security agencies for their efforts but emphasized the importance of involving community-based groups that understand the local terrain. He urged members of the corps to carry out their duties with discipline, professionalism, and respect for human rights, while working in harmony with other security agencies.
The launch of the Kano State Neighbourhood Watch Corps is a significant development in the state’s efforts to improve security. With the corps working closely with conventional security agencies, the governor is confident that peace and order will be maintained in both urban and rural areas of Kano. Yusuf reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to continued investment in security, stressing that peace and stability are essential for economic growth and social development in the state.