The Sokoto State Government has supplied 20 Hilux vans and 710 motorcycles to the newly established Community Guard Corps, aimed at enhancing security efforts across the state.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, retired Col. Abdul Usman, handed over the vehicles and motorcycles to the Commanders of the 13 local government areas most affected by banditry during a ceremony at the state headquarters of the corps.
Representing Col. Usman, the Director of Administration, Department of Security Matters, Almustafa Sayudi, explained that the vehicles are intended to enable the corps to reach the most remote areas of their communities, with the goal of safeguarding residents from bandit threats.
“These vehicles and motorcycles are strictly for official use, to help the corps in their mission to protect communities. The government has invested significant resources in acquiring these assets, and it is imperative that they are properly used and maintained,” Col. Usman stated.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of the state, urging the personnel to use the vehicles judiciously and reminding them of their role in complementing conventional security forces.
“Your role as the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps is supportive. You are expected to work hand in hand with traditional security agencies to ensure the protection of our rural dwellers,” he added.
Col. Usman also called on the residents of the 13 most affected local government areas to cooperate with the corps, emphasizing that community support is crucial for the success of their security operations.
Speaking at the event, Sokoto State Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ibrahim Dadi Adare, confirmed that special funds have been allocated for the maintenance of the vehicles. Represented by the Director of Local Government Matters, Bello Musa, the Commissioner assured that local governments will provide ongoing support to the corps to ensure their effectiveness.
The State Commander of the Corps, retired Col. Musa Na Allah Idris, thanked the government for the provision of the vehicles and pledged that they would be well-maintained. He expressed confidence that with the training received by the corps members, they are well-prepared to tackle banditry and restore security to the state. He also appealed for continued community support.
The Sokoto State Government established the Community Guard Corps in response to a resolution by the North-West Governors’ Forum to create state-level community watch corps to combat banditry in the region. Sokoto follows in the footsteps of Katsina and Zamfara states, which previously launched similar initiatives.
Analysts believe that with these security measures in place, the frequency of bandit attacks in the North-West zone may soon decrease.
