Sokoto Governor Ahmed Aliyu yesterday unveiled a strengthened security strategy aimed at decisively dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace to affected communities. The announcement came as he declared open the 17th regular meeting of the State Executive Council, marking the final council session for 2025.
Addressing council members and guests, Governor Aliyu said his administration remains “determined to make the menace a thing of the past,” and stressed that the newly introduced measures are meant to build on existing efforts by both state and federal security agencies.
Governor Aliyu outlined that the new security initiatives will prioritise improved intelligence gathering and stronger coordination between the government and security agencies. According to him, these elements are critical to pre-empting attacks and dismantling bandit networks before violence can occur.
“Intelligence remains a critical factor in checkmating criminal elements, and we are confident that these new initiatives will further enhance our capacity to tackle banditry decisively,” the governor said, highlighting the importance of accurate and timely information.
Since assuming office, Aliyu said his administration has consistently provided logistical and operational support to security forces, ensuring they are better equipped to respond to threats across the state.
While underscoring the government’s commitment, the governor also appealed to residents to play an active role by supporting security operations through collaboration and sharing of useful information with authorities.
“As a government, we are ready to do all it takes to ensure that banditry becomes history in Sokoto State, but we cannot do it alone,” Aliyu said, urging citizens to partner with security agencies.
Governor Aliyu commended members of the State Executive Council for their dedication, attributing recent progress to teamwork and collective effort. He also thanked the people of Sokoto for their prayers and cooperation, promising further “dividends of democracy.”
During the session, he took time to congratulate recently appointed senior officials, including Head of Service, Abdulkadir Ahmed Mohamed, and Senior Special Assistant on Cabinet Matters, Bande Rika, encouraging them to contribute meaningfully to the administration’s “Nine-Point Smart Innovative Agenda.”
The new strategy follows a series of ongoing and complementary efforts in Sokoto and beyond to enhance security. In recent months, the state has seen intensified collaboration between local authorities and federal security agencies, along with tactical success in neutralising bandit elements. Across Nigeria’s Northwest, coordinated military operations have targeted key criminal figures and disrupted bandit strongholds.
The state’s approach also mirrors broader initiatives by regional governments and civil society groups, including the formation of community security working groups and sustained public advocacy for stronger security frameworks.
Governor Aliyu’s strategy underscores a multi-layered commitment to peace and stability, blending enhanced intelligence, public cooperation, and support for security agencies as Sokoto looks to close out the year with a more secure outlook.
