Abuja: The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, emphasized the pivotal role traditional rulers play in enhancing security within communities across the nation. Represented by Mr. Victor Olaiya, the Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) of Police in charge of Zone 7, Egbetokun addressed attendees at the inauguration of a three-day security training for community leaders held on Tuesday in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the training was organized specifically for traditional rulers, local government administrators, and critical grassroots security stakeholders to devise strategies to combat insecurity in local communities. The event was a collaborative effort between the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, and the Royal Gate International Institute for Security Studies and Leadership Advancement.
Egbetokun underscored the necessity of engaging traditional institutions in tackling the security challenges confronting numerous communities. He stated, "Security cannot be compromised; security and economic development are like Siamese twins, they go together. Without security, there cannot be development." He further affirmed that the Nigeria Police view security as a collective responsibility, necessitating the active involvement of traditional institutions, local authorities, and community stakeholders to achieve sustainable peace and security nationwide.
Prince Celestine Ekwe, the Convener and Facilitator of the training, highlighted the significant role traditional institutions play, asserting the importance of addressing the persistent killings in the country. He urged stakeholders to seek lasting solutions to the menace of insecurity, emphasizing the training's objective to offer solutions to community safety challenges.
The Senate President, Mr. Godswill Akpabio, represented by Sen. Muntari Dandutse, acknowledged the crucial contributions of traditional rulers, local government chairmen, and community stakeholders in maintaining peace and security. He noted that the training aims to enhance security measures and equip local authorities with the necessary skills to tackle security challenges effectively.
Prof. Olufemi Peters, Vice Chancellor of NOUN, represented by Prof. Isaac Butswat, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, reiterated the importance of the tripartite engagement for national development and security. Malam Isa Yuguda, Pro Chancellor of NOUN and former Governor of Bauchi State, delivered the keynote address, advocating for a collaborative approach among traditional rulers and local government chairmen to address the insecurity plaguing communities.
The training serves as a testament to the commitment of all stakeholders in enhancing community safety and strengthening the collaboration necessary for addressing the security issues faced by the nation.