Niger Govt Approves Multi- Level Vigilante  Corps To Strengthen  Community Security

The Niger State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property through the approval of a comprehensive, community-based security framework.

The Secretary to the Government of Niger State (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Usman, made this known during a meeting of the Committee for the Review of the Niger State Vigilante Corps, held at the Conference Hall of the Office of the SSG in Minna.

In a Press statement issued and made available to Journalists on Wednesday in Minna by the Coordinator, Press Affairs, SSG Office, Malam Tanko Lawal stated that Alhaji Usman disclosed that the government has approved the establishment of Vigilante Corps at the State, Local government, and Emirate levels to support conventional security agencies.

He further stated that the Office of the SSG, the Ministry of Homeland Security, security agencies and Emirate Councils have been directed to immediately develop an operational framework for the establishment and functioning of these corps across all levels.

The SSG noted  that the government has resolved to review the existing law establishing the State Vigilante Corps to align with the new security structure, emphasizing that implementation of the reforms would begin immediately, even as the legislative amendment process continues.

Regarding recruitment, Alhaji Usman stressed that only individuals of proven integrity would be engaged following thorough screening.

He added that all recruits would receive uniform training at zonal levels, while the government would provide standardized uniforms and operational equipment, clearly differentiated by Emirate Council.

The SSG also announced the Government’s approval for the establishment of a Metropolitan Security Watch, Joint Task Force Checkpoints and a Security Agencies Media Advocacy platform to tackle street crimes and enhance public awareness on security matters.

To strengthen community engagement, the Government has agreed to hold periodic security town hall meetings at the Emirate level to keep citizens informed about security interventions and other developmental initiatives, Alhaji Usman stated.

He revealed that the Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, in collaboration with Local government Council Chairmen, has been directed to prioritize security matters within their jurisdictions.

The SSG expressed the Government’s concern over the involvement of some traditional institutions in illegal mining activities, directing that such operations cease immediately pending the establishment of a properly regulated framework.

He further disclosed that the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) have been directed to arrest vehicles without number plates and enforce full compliance with traffic regulations.

The Nigeria Immigration Service has been tasked with intensifying internal surveillance on illegal aliens, while the Nigeria Customs Service was directed to ensure thorough scanning of inland-bound containers at all ports or points of entry.

The meeting concluded with an appeal to all Niger State residents to support and cooperate fully with security agencies and the State Government, noting that security is a collective responsibility.