Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State has emphasized on the need for a collaborative approach to foster regional stability, socio-economic prosperity and addressing the root causes of conflicts and insecurity.
He spoke at the Policymakers Technical Session on the North-West Peace and Security Development Framework in Kaduna on Monday.
Sani stressed the urgency of the situation, saying that the North-West zone faces existential threats from rural banditry, insurgency, cattle rustling, kidnapping, and communal violence.
Sani highlighted the session’s objective of reviewing the report from the Katsina Summit and developing a comprehensive road map to address the region’s security challenges.
He lamented the devastating impact of these issues on the region, including rising poverty, alarming rates of out-of-school children, food insecurity, and decaying infrastructure.
To combat these challenges, the governor proposed a multidimensional approach, calling for the establishment of a dedicated Theater Command to combat bandits and terrorists.
He also suggested extending the operations of the Multinational Joint Task Force to cover the international borders of the North- West, addressing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
Sani also urged the formation of standing security committees at state and local government levels, involving civil society, religious, and traditional leaders for effective synergy and early warnings against violence.
He advocated regular reviews and refinements of security strategies, including non-kinetic approaches such as deradicalisation, rehabilitation, and transitional justice.
The governor emphasised the importance of socio-economic interventions to address rural poverty and infrastructure deficits.
He called for stimulating investment, developing agriculture and agri-business, expanding rural infrastructure, broadening access to education and healthcare, and promoting a sense of inclusion among citizens.
Sani also urged the Commissioners to give their best to the assignment as the outcome was eagerly being awaited by the North- West Governors.
He declared the session open, calling for unity and a collective effort to restore peace and security to the region.
He expressed profound gratitude to UNDP for its practical steps towards fulfilling the commitment made at the inaugural North-West Peace and Security Summit in Katsina.
Speaking also, Samuel Aruwan, the overseeing Commissioner of the State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, emphasised the need for stronger security collaboration among North-West States.
He underscored the importance of regional synergy to address the complex security challenges, which threaten food security, education, healthcare, civic freedom, social cohesion,and the rural economy.(NAN)