President Bola Ahmed Tinubu says the issue of insecurity, especially in the North is of paramount importance to his administration.
He gave the assurance while addressing a meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council in Birnin Kebbi.
President Tinubu commended Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris for the role he has been playing in the maintenance of security and peace in the state.
He said, “Governor Idris has collaborated with the Federal Government through contacts and briefings to the President on happenings in Kebbi.”
Tinubu said, “The Federal Government will extend the hand of cooperation to achieve absolute security.”
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, President Tinubu cautioned those who want to politicise security, calling for collective action, devoid of politics.
“I am advocating the establishment of community-based peace committees, to promote dialogue, resolve disputes, promote security strategies and interface dialogue.”
“This is aimed at building trust, reducing tension and promoting peaceful coexistence.”
“Youths and women should be empowered through education, economic support and leadership training, to facilitate societal peace.”
“Traditional rulers have a role to play to promote peace and stability in the nation; they have the capacity to reduce tension, enhance peaceful resolution of crises, and broker peace in conflicts.”
“Furthermore, traditional institutions can use their influence to provide effective solutions to the region’s security challenges, as well as encourage community engagement,” President Tinubu added.
In response, the Sultan of Sokoto thanked President Tinubu for encouraging traditional rulers to perform their functions effectively.
“As traditional rulers, our hopes are always renewed; we key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, and we affirm our total loyalty to the government,” the Sultan emphasised.
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
