Army Commander Rallies Stakeholders for United Front Against Insecurity in Niger State

In a renewed push to address the worsening security situation in Niger State, the Corps Commander of Artillery, Nigerian Army, Major General Zakari Abubakar, has called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, community leaders, and stakeholders to combat insecurity across the region.

‎Speaking at a maiden security and stakeholders’ meeting held at the Military Cantonment in Kontagora, Major General Abubakar said Nigeria cannot win the fight against insecurity without a united front that includes civilians and security operatives working hand in hand.

‎”Security is everyone’s responsibility,” he declared. “We must look beyond differences and act with one voice to bring peace back to our communities. Peace is the bedrock of development.”

The high-level forum brought together leaders from the military, police, traditional institutions, religious bodies, and political class as well as members of the academic community from Kontagora, Rijau, and Mariga LGAs.

Abubakar stressed the critical role of intelligence gathering, urging residents to supply credible information to security agencies. He added that inter-agency synergy and public engagement were vital to regaining control of communities plagued by banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.

‎Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji, praised the military for taking the lead in fostering dialogue and unity. He described the forum as historic and timely, given the sophisticated nature of insecurity in the state.

‎”The activities of criminals transcend local and even national boundaries,” the Speaker noted. “We need strong political will, collaboration, and proactive strategies to confront them.”

‎Retired military officer Major General Salisu Sa’id urged residents to stop shielding criminal elements and to support law enforcement efforts through timely disclosures of suspicious activities. “Kontagora has always been a peaceful place.

We must not allow a few bad actors to destroy that legacy,” he said.

Also speaking, Commander of the Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATRAC), Major General John Sokoya, called for deeper cooperation between local communities and the armed forces, reiterating the value of community-based intelligence in preventing attacks.

Participants, including representatives from religious groups, traditional councils, political bodies, and security agencies, pledged their full support and resolved to intensify collaboration for the safety of lives and property across the region.