Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, has described security as a critical foundation for sustaining development and economic growth across Nigeria. He said his administration's unwavering commitment to peace and stability has enabled residents of the state to enjoy the dividends of democracy.
Governor's Remarks During Police Visit
Buni made the remark on Wednesday while receiving the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Northeast, DIG Zakariya Fera, and DIG Ibrahim Baba Zango during a courtesy visit in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital. Represented by the Acting Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Mohammed Goje, the governor stressed that lasting peace, economic growth and social progress can only thrive in an atmosphere of safety and stability.
Security at Heart of Development Agenda
Highlighting his administration's achievements, Buni noted that security has remained at the heart of Yobe State's development agenda. He said the government has maintained a strong and productive partnership with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies over the years.
According to him, "This partnership has been reinforced through the provision of critical operational support, the improvement of security infrastructure and the strengthening of institutional coordination mechanisms. The government has also remained committed to the welfare of security personnel and their families, recognising their sacrifices as indispensable to the peace and stability enjoyed by our communities."
Attribution of Peace to Collaborative Efforts
The governor attributed the prevailing peace in the state to the resilience, professionalism and collaborative efforts of security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and residents. He called for sustained collaboration with the police and other security agencies to further strengthen the state's security architecture.
Advocacy for Enhanced Security Measures
Buni also advocated enhanced intelligence gathering, improved operational capacity, strategic deployment of additional personnel and the expansion of community policing initiatives. "We must sustain the prevailing peace to create an enabling environment for socio-economic development," he said.
The governor further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to national security and ongoing efforts to restore stability across the Northeast region.
Police DIG's Remarks
Earlier, DIG Zakariya Fera said the visit was in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to assess the security situation in the region, strengthen operational strategies and improve service delivery. "We have come to Yobe to ensure that together we take the fight to criminals. We must sensitise our stakeholders that for the police to protect them effectively, they also have a role to play because the enemies of society live within society," Fera said.
The visit underscored the growing synergy between the Yobe State Government and federal security agencies, reflecting a renewed commitment to preserving peace and strengthening security across the state.
