Community Intelligence Vital in Sokoto's Security Strategy

Col. Ahmed Usman, serving as the Special Adviser to Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State on Security Matters, has highlighted the critical role of community-based intelligence in addressing rural insecurity as he nears three years in office. He noted that security is a key pillar of the administration’s 9-Point SMART Agenda.

Upon taking office, the administration faced significant challenges, including a lack of support for security agencies from the previous government, which had led to operational deficiencies. To address these issues, a State Security Committee was established, chaired by Deputy Governor Engr. Idris Mohammed Gobir, to facilitate regular assessments and coordinated responses to security threats.

The government has since restored and increased allowances for security personnel and procured over 200 vehicles and 250 motorcycles, with additional investments including 62 armored vehicles and 320 motorcycles at a cost of approximately N27.6 billion. Recently, Governor Ahmed Aliyu approved N1.7 billion for 1,000 Bajaj motorcycles to further enhance security efforts across the state.