Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has called for stronger collaboration between the Federal Government and the state government to tackle banditry and other criminal activities threatening communities in the state.
Aliyu made the appeal in his Independence Day message on Thursday as Nigeria marked its 66th anniversary, saying sustained cooperation between both levels of government remained necessary to restore lasting peace.
“There is a strong synergy between the Sokoto State Government and the Federal Government in our collective commitment towards protecting the lives and property of our people,” the governor said.
The governor commended the Federal Government for its support in the fight against insecurity and expressed optimism that continued coordination with conventional security agencies would help end banditry in the state.
Aliyu also highlighted the logistics and equipment provided by his administration to support security operations.
He said the state had procured more than 200 patrol vehicles, two emirate bulletproof vehicles, 100 Buffalo Armoured Personnel Carriers, 200 motorcycles, 3,200 security hardware, 2,000 bulletproof vests and 200 night-vision goggles.
He added that 100 thermal-vision scopes and other security equipment had also been provided, while the government facilitated the full operationalisation of the Nigerian Air Force Base in Sokoto and upgraded the Department of State Services tracker from 4G to 5G technology.
The governor further cited the establishment of the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps, equipped with 40 Hilux vehicles and 700 motorcycles, as part of efforts to strengthen security operations at the community level.
The state has continued to commit resources to security operations. In July, the government unveiled 62 operational vehicles and other security equipment valued at N27.127 billion, while in September it approved another N1.592 billion for 30 Toyota Hilux vehicles.
Aliyu also cited the establishment of a military barracks in Illela and a Police Mobile barracks as part of measures to improve security coverage.
The governor reassured residents that his administration would continue efforts to end banditry and urged them to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information.
He also paid tribute to Nigeria’s founding fathers, urging citizens to draw inspiration from their patriotism and sacrifices.
According to Aliyu, Nigeria had experienced “many ups and downs” since independence but had also recorded significant achievements.
He expressed optimism that the country could make further progress through renewed commitment and collective effort.
The governor appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting, cooperating with and praying for the country’s leaders as they discharge their responsibilities.
Aliyu wished Nigerians a happy 66th Independence Anniversary.
