Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with security agencies in the fight against banditry.
Aliyu gave the assurance during a visit to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday. The meeting focused on enhancing ongoing efforts to tackle violent crimes in Sokoto State and other affected areas.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s media aide, Abubakar Bawa, Aliyu stressed that safeguarding lives and property is a shared responsibility.
“We believe that protecting our people is not the duty of the Federal Government alone, but a collective obligation,” the governor stated.
He highlighted security as a central pillar of his administration’s 9-Point Smart Innovative Agenda, noting that sustainable development can only thrive in a peaceful environment.
Aliyu further disclosed that his government has procured and distributed over 200 patrol vehicles to various security agencies since he assumed office, as part of efforts to boost operational capacity and rapid response.
While acknowledging that banditry remains a challenge, the governor commended security forces for the progress made in recent months and urged them to sustain the momentum.
He emphasized the importance of intelligence sharing and inter-agency cooperation, warning that lack of coordination could weaken efforts against organised crime.
Aliyu also paid tribute to former Sokoto State Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Musa, now an Assistant Inspector-General, describing him as a dedicated officer whose service strengthened the state’s security framework. He urged the newly appointed Commissioner of Police, Hayatu Hassan, to build on that foundation.
In response, IGP Egbetokun commended the Sokoto State Government for its continued support and assured the Nigeria Police Force’s readiness to deepen collaboration.
“We will continue to work closely with your administration to ensure Sokoto is safe and secure,” he said.
The governor was accompanied on the visit by Secretary to the State Government, Muhammad Bello Sifawa, and Chief of Staff, Aminu Haliru Dikko.