Sokoto State Government has equipped its newly established Community Guard Corps with 20 Hilux vans and 710 motorcycles.
Gatekeepers News reports that this comes as part of a broader initiative by North-West Nigerian states to combat banditry in the region and enhance rural security.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Abdul Usman who was represented by Director of Administration in Department of Security Matters, Almustafa Sayudi presided over the handover ceremony at state headquarters of the corps.
The vehicles and motorcycles were distributed to commanders from 13 local government areas (LGAs) most affected by banditry.
Sayuda said, “These resources are meant to help the corps penetrate the nooks and crannies of their communities.”
He noted that the equipment is strictly for official use and urged personnel to ensure proper utilization and maintenance.
Sokoto is the second state to establish the Community Guard Corps which aligns with a resolution by North-West Governors’ Forum to create state-level community watch groups. It was first created by Zamfara state government.
While speaking, State Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Matters, Ibrahim Dadi Adare assured that special funds have been allocated for the maintenance of the vehicles, underscoring the government’s long-term investment in the initiative.
State Commander of the Corps, Musa Na Allah Idris also be expressed confidence in the training provided to personnel and their readiness to combat banditry.
He further called for widespread support from the community to ensure the success of their operations.
Security analysts view this development as a positive step towards reducing bandit attacks in the North-West zone.
The Community Guard Corps is expected to complement the efforts of conventional security outfits in safeguarding rural areas.
As Sokoto State reinforces its security apparatus, the effectiveness of this community-based approach in curbing banditry will be closely watched by neighboring states and security experts alike.
