The Federal Government has pledged to deepen its partnership with the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) to strengthen grassroots security and improve the protection of lives and property across the country.

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, made the commitment when the Commander-General and National Chairman of the VGN, Otunba James Udoma, led the group’s management team on a courtesy visit to him in Abuja.

The minister described the VGN as an important grassroots security organisation whose presence in communities contributes to public safety, protection of lives and national development.

Olawande said the Ministry of Youth Development was willing to identify practical areas of cooperation with the group and develop programmes capable of producing tangible benefits for young Nigerians and communities.

He, however, emphasised that any partnership with the VGN must remain within the law and complement the constitutional and statutory duties of recognised security agencies.

The minister also commended VGN personnel for the risks and sacrifices they undertake in communities across the country, describing their service as an expression of patriotism and commitment to humanity.

He noted that vigilante personnel operate at the grassroots, where many security challenges first become apparent, making their presence valuable to efforts aimed at preventing and responding to threats.

Olawande added that government must recognise and support individuals who put their lives at risk to protect others and contribute to the peace and security of their communities.