Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has reiterated that the state remains an unfriendly terrain for insurgents and bandits, pledging that his administration will continue to take decisive action to defend peace and protect citizens.
His message was delivered during the Kaduna State Security Sector Stakeholders’ Engagement held on Tuesday by Headquarters 1 Division of the Nigerian Army and the Joint Taskforce, Operation Fantsan Yamma. With the theme “Community Engagement and Conflict Prevention: Building Trust and Stability,” the forum brought together a broad spectrum of security actors and community leaders.
Represented by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Sule Shu’aibu, the governor stressed that communities must not harbour criminals. “There can be no room for sympathy when innocent lives are endangered,” Sani said.
He noted that effective security required cooperation from traditional rulers, communities and citizens, alongside the efforts of government and security forces. He added that Kaduna was enhancing its security partnerships through logistics support, intelligence exchange and community-led structures.
According to him, the state’s peace model was gaining traction beyond Kaduna, with neighbouring states adopting aspects of its approach to security management.
He praised the 1 Division for organising the forum, describing it as an important step in strengthening collective action.
Earlier, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Wase, Commander of Sector 1, Operation Fantsan Yamma, highlighted the urgency of addressing security threats including abductions and attacks on rural communities. He said Kaduna’s diversity and economic promise made it essential to confront these challenges decisively.
Wase explained that the meeting would assess vulnerabilities, discuss the intelligence needs of various communities and develop collaborative strategies. He encouraged participants to challenge existing assumptions, share insights and co-create solutions that would help de-escalate conflict swiftly.
He called on all stakeholders to embrace cooperation in building a safer future where development can thrive.
The gathering was attended by representatives of the Military, Police, DSS, paramilitary agencies, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations and local government chairmen.
