Cynthia Ezegwu
Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris has urged security experts, analysts, and the media to strengthen collaboration in the fight against armed banditry, emphasizing that collective intelligence and sustained engagement are key to achieving lasting peace.
Speaking on Monday at the Arewa Media Security Summit in Birnin Kebbi, Governor Idris highlighted his administration’s investments in security operations, community engagement, and humanitarian recovery, which have facilitated the resettlement of several displaced communities across the state.
“We have consistently engaged critical stakeholders, deployed resources, and implemented strategic interventions. Yet, the bandits continue to transit and wreak havoc across some parts of the state. This is why collaboration and vigilance must never wane,” he said.
The two-day summit, jointly organised by the Arewa Broadcast Media Practitioners Forum and the Kebbi State Government, brought together national security stakeholders to discuss Nigeria’s security challenges and explore sustainable solutions.
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd), commended Governor Idris for his stakeholder-driven approach, calling it “a model of inclusive leadership” worthy of replication nationwide.
Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Abubakar III, who chaired the event, praised the governor’s commitment and assured his continued moral and institutional support. “This is my third visit to Kebbi in two months, and I will continue to stand by Governor Idris in every effort to restore peace and security,” the Sultan said.
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Abdullahi Yelwa, Chairman of the Arewa Broadcast Media Practitioners Forum, explained that Kebbi was chosen as the host state due to its mix of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies and its reputation as a hub for dialogue-driven governance.
Experts expected to present papers at the summit included Professor Attahiru Jega, former INEC Chairman; Major-General Kuka Sheka (rtd); Yahuza Getso; Umar Pate, Vice-Chancellor of Federal University, Kashere; and Samuel Aruwan, former Kaduna State Commissioner for Internal Security.
A communique from the summit is expected to produce actionable recommendations for both state and federal governments to strengthen efforts to tackle insecurity across Nigeria.