Isiyaku Ahmed
To address rising security concerns, the Kano State Ministry of Information, in collaboration with the Kano Patriotic Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Coalition Forum (KPCF), on Monday convened a broad stakeholders’ meeting on peace and security in the state.
The meeting, held at the Ministry of Information, brought together government officials, civil society organizations, traditional leaders, community influencers, and security actors to deliberate on emerging threats and develop community-driven strategies for sustaining peace across Kano State.
CSOs call for stronger collaboration
In his welcome address, Hassan Ibrahim Gama, a convener of the Kano Patriotic CSOs Coalition Forum, underscored the need for civil society organizations to work more closely with government in addressing insecurity.
Gama highlighted the unique strength of CSOs, including grassroots presence, community trust and early-warning capacity, which he said are vital in supporting the state’s peace and security initiatives.
He commended the Ministry of Information for providing an inclusive platform for dialogue and for recognizing CSOs as key contributors in the peacebuilding process.
The Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, who delivered the keynote address, said the meeting was prompted by mounting security concerns in the state.
He outlined government’s ongoing support to security agencies through logistics, coordination and policy reforms.
Comrade Waiya stressed that security is a shared responsibility, warning that no meaningful progress can be achieved unless the government, civil society, traditional institutions and citizens work together.
He praised coalitions like KPCF for their role in grassroots sensitization and peace advocacy.
The Commissioner reiterated existing security measures, including the ban on motorcycle operations in the state, and the restriction of tricycle (Keke Napep) movement between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am.
He cautioned against politicizing security issues, insisting that peace and safety must remain above partisan interests.
Stakeholders Table Solutions
Participants at the meeting pressed for actionable solutions, raising several recommendations to address the state’s lingering security gaps. Key suggestions include:
- Government action to curb frequent fights during football matches that often escalate into fadan daba (thuggery).
- Measures to prevent children from roaming the streets and becoming vulnerable to crime.
- Stronger monitoring of herbal medicine practitioners, especially regarding illegal drug sales.
- Enforcement of rules restricting house rentals to individuals without proper identification.
- Enhanced security presence along non-motorable routes into Kano, especially in rural areas.
- Recruitment and deployment of additional security personnel to high-risk communities.
- Investment in surveillance tools including CCTV cameras and tracking systems.
- Encouraging community vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities.
- Expanded sensitization campaigns on peace and security.
- Establishment of community-level Peace Observers.
- Stronger involvement of District and Ward Heads in monitoring security initiatives.
- Promotion of unity and cooperation among all security actors.
- Capacity building to strengthen enforcement of existing security policies.
- Ensuring justice and accountability for offenders.
CSOs pledged to sustain collaboration with government agencies, traditional rulers and security institutions to advance peacebuilding, prevent conflicts and strengthen community resilience.
Commitment of Conveners
The meeting was convened under the leadership of Peter Hassan Tijani, Hassan Ibrahim Gama and Mustapha Mohamed Chiroma of the KPCF.
The conveners reaffirmed the commitment of civil society to support government initiatives through grassroots mobilization, peace monitoring and public enlightenment.
Towards a Safer Kano
Stakeholders unanimously agreed that lasting peace and security in Kano State can only be achieved through strong partnerships involving government, civil society, traditional institutions and active community participation.
They pledged to continue working together towards a safer and more peaceful Kano State.
