By Abubakar Rabilu Gombe
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Gombe State Command, has called for stronger collaboration between security agencies, community leaders and other stakeholders to enhance intelligence gathering and address emerging security challenges across the state.
The State Commandant, Jibrin Idris, made the call on Thursday during a Stakeholders’ Security Interface Meeting in Gombe, describing the engagement as a strategic effort to strengthen security through partnership, trust and shared responsibility.
He said security could not be left solely in the hands of government and security agencies, stressing that communities remain the most reliable sources of intelligence needed to prevent and combat crime.
“Effective security is achieved when citizens and security agencies work together through timely information sharing and mutual trust,” he said.
The Commandant urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities, especially around critical national assets such as power installations, telecommunications facilities, schools, bridges and water infrastructure.
He assured participants that all credible intelligence received by the Corps would be treated confidentially and acted upon professionally, adding that the command would not allow criminal elements to gain a foothold in the state.
Idris also commended Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, traditional rulers and community volunteers for their contributions to maintaining peace and security in Gombe.
During the interactive session, stakeholders praised the NSCDC for creating a platform for dialogue and offered suggestions to improve security operations.
Chairman of the Kautal Hore Cattle Breeders Association, Ardo Chindo Abubakar, pledged the association’s continued support to security agencies through intelligence sharing and promotion of peaceful coexistence among communities.
Similarly, Chairman of the Keke NAPEP Association in Gombe Local Government Area, Iman Abdullahi, assured the Corps of the association’s readiness to support security efforts by reporting suspicious activities.
Representatives of the Hoteliers Association called for improved coordination between security agencies and hotel operators during security operations, while the Hisbah Command appealed for the reopening of a security outpost that previously contributed to maintaining security in parts of the state.
Stakeholders also expressed concern over the activities of unregistered house-renting agents allegedly renting properties without proper verification, warning that the trend could provide hideouts for criminals.
The meeting ended with renewed commitments by the NSCDC and stakeholders to deepen intelligence sharing and strengthen community-based approaches to security across Gombe State.
