By Naomi Ishaku Bugo
Gov. Umaru Bago of Niger has called on the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to strengthen its manpower and deploy more technology-driven solutions to effectively tackle emerging security challenges.
Bago made the call on Wednesday in Minna when the Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Police in charge of Training and Development and Coordinating DIG for the North-Central Zone, Isyaku Mohammed, paid him a courtesy visit.
Represented by his deputy, Mr Yakubu Garba, the governor noted that Niger, being the state with the largest landmass in the country, has many difficult-to-access communities that require enhanced security coverage.
He said additional personnel and modern technological equipment were needed to effectively combat banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities across the state.
“Niger State deserves additional manpower and technology to improve aerial surveillance and enable security agencies to stay ahead of criminal elements,” he said.
The governor commended the police for their commitment to safeguarding lives and property in the state and lauded the Commissioner of Police, Adamu Abdullahi-Elleman, for efforts that had significantly reduced thuggery in urban areas.
Bago reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the police and other security agencies in maintaining peace and security.
He also called for stronger collaboration among security agencies to enhance intelligence sharing and improve operational effectiveness.
Earlier, Mohammed said that his visit was aimed at assessing the security situation in the state and reviewing existing crime-fighting strategies with a view to strengthening them for sustainable peace.
He said the visit also provided an opportunity to encourage security personnel working tirelessly to protect lives and property.
“I am in Niger State to assess the security situation and review the strategies being employed by the command in fighting crime.
“We are also engaging officers and men to evaluate existing measures and identify ways of achieving lasting peace in the state,” he said.
The DIG assured residents, parents and students that schools across the state remained safe.
He acknowledged the shortage of police personnel nationwide but said that efforts were underway to address the challenge through the ongoing recruitment of 50,000 additional officers.
According to him, the Inspector-General of Police remains committed to ensuring lasting peace and security in Niger State and across the country.
Mohammed thanked the Niger Government and other stakeholders for their continued support to the police and called for sustained cooperation in the fight against crime. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)