The Katsina State Government has recruited an additional 550 youths into its security outfit, the “Community Watch Corps,” to strengthen the fight against insecurity in the state.
Gov. Dikko Radda made the announcement during the graduation ceremony for the second batch of the corps on Friday in Katsina. He emphasized that the recruitment demonstrates the government’s commitment to a community-driven approach to security.
Gov. Radda described the corps’ role as courageous and vital to the safety and well-being of Katsina’s communities.
“First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you graduating today. Your dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to serve our communities are commendable,” he said.
He also explained that the program’s mission was to empower citizens to take charge of their own safety.
“The government believes that a community-driven approach is most effective in tackling the ongoing crisis. This approach shifts from purely military tactics to methods centered on community involvement,” he added.
The governor pointed out that, over the past year, Katsina State had witnessed a significant reduction in crime and had achieved numerous successes in neutralizing bandits.
“Communities that were once gripped by fear are now experiencing a renewed sense of security and stability, thanks to the cooperation between residents and security operatives. This partnership has been instrumental in enhancing intelligence sharing and reducing response times,” he noted.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasir Muazu, revealed that the corps members were drawn from 10 local government areas: Funtua, Malumfashi, Danja, Bakori, Musawa, Matazu, Charanchi, Batagarawa, Kurfi, and Dutsin-ma.
He added that the youths had received training in various war tactics and would collaborate with security agents to ensure peace in their respective areas.
It should be noted that the government had previously recruited over 1,400 corps members in the first batch, who are currently serving alongside other security agents in front-line local governments, including Batsari, Danmusa, Safana, Jibia, Faskari, Dandume, Sabuwa, and Kankara.
NAN
