Governor Dikko Radda has inaugurated 1,466 personnel of the newly established Katsina State Community Watch Corps expected to support the fight against insecurity in the state.
Radda said at the graduation of the personnel on Tuesday in Katsina, that they would compliment security agencies in mitigating insecurity in the state.
He explained that the initiative was part of his campaign promise to tackle insecurity bedeviling parts of the state.
“During the course of my campaign, I was able to traverse across the 361 wards in the state, and I witnessed the devastating effect of insecurity on our communities.
“People have been denigrated to poor living conditions, immense psychological trauma and a complete demolition of socioeconomic development.
“In line with my campaign promises, security has been the top most priority of my administration, and we have invested vast resources to ensure its sustainability in our fight against banditry.”
The governor said 24 out of the 34 Local Government Areas in the state are facing severe security challenges.
According to Radda, even before his inauguration as governor, he had set up a committee of senior retired security personnel to assess the situation and suggest ways to address the security challenges.
The governor added that he also consulted serving security officers to have a complete understanding of the dynamics of the insecurity and the operational security architecture in the state.
“I assure you that my entire vision for the people of Katsina State begins with securing the state.
“Today marks a pivotal milestone, not just for our graduating officers, but also for the entire Katsina state, by extension to our country Nigeria.
“This occasion serves as an emblem of our commitment to security, peace, and community-centered advancement.
“It is with profound respect and admiration that I stand before the newest ambassadors of public safety and trust – the graduating officers of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps.”
The governor believes that the personnel would leverage localised knowledge and foster trust, as they face the task of securing their communities.
“We are not merely addressing symptoms but targeting the roots of insecurity in our state.
“To our dear officers, as you step out into the field, remember that you now bear a significant responsibility. You are not just protectors but also role models, mediators, and pillars of support.
“Your uniform is a symbol of hope, assurance, and trustworthiness, wear it with pride, but more importantly, wear it with integrity.
“You have been saddled with the responsibility of facing a deadly enemy who has no respect for life or peaceful coexistence,” he told the officers.
According to Radda, the bandits have brought pain upon mothers, daughters, sons, and fathers in the state, as such it is a religious obligation to protect the people.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that during the ceremony, the governor distributed 700 motorcycles and 70 Hilux vehicles for the operational needs of the corps.(NAN)
