Katsina State Governor Dikko Umar Radda has disclosed that insecurity remains a significant challenge in 26 out of the state's 34 local government areas, despite his administration's concerted efforts to combat banditry and other violent crimes.

Speaking during a mid-term briefing to mark his second year in office, Governor Radda acknowledged that the security situation he inherited continues to pose serious concerns for the state.

"When we assumed office, 26 LGAs were affected by banditry and other forms of insecurity. That situation is still challenging, and while we've made progress, we are not yet where we need to be," the governor stated.

Community Collaboration Essential

Radda emphasized that tackling insecurity requires collaborative efforts between the government and citizens. "We cannot win this war alone. We need communities to work with the authorities and provide actionable intelligence that will lead to the arrest or termination of these criminals," he said.

The governor highlighted his administration's policy of supporting victims of bandit attacks rather than paying ransoms, which aligns with the federal government's stance on not negotiating with criminal elements.

Homegrown Security Solutions

A key component of Katsina's security strategy has been the establishment of the Katsina State Community Watch Corps, a grassroots initiative designed to complement conventional security agencies.

"We didn't waste any time in setting up the Community Watch Corps. It is a homegrown solution that is now being replicated in other states," Radda noted with pride.

While acknowledging the support from military and federal authorities, the governor admitted that significant challenges remain. "We have made significant gains, but the road is still long. We will not rest until every LGA in Katsina is free from the grip of bandits."

Addressing Root Causes

Beyond military interventions, Governor Radda's administration is tackling underlying factors contributing to insecurity, including poverty and unemployment among young people.

"Our investments in agriculture, enterprise development, and healthcare are aimed at reducing the vulnerabilities that bandits exploit," he explained, adding that sustainable development cannot be achieved without first establishing peace and stability.

The governor's candid assessment comes amid growing concerns about insecurity across Nigeria's northwestern region, where banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes have disrupted economic activities and displaced thousands of residents.