The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.), has commissioned operational vehicles and advanced security equipment worth ₦27.6 billion in Sokoto State as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against insecurity and enhance the operational capacity of security agencies across the state.
The commissioning ceremony, held at the Giginya Memorial Stadium in Sokoto, marked another major investment by the Sokoto State Government in security infrastructure aimed at improving intelligence gathering, rapid response, and coordinated operations against banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and other violent crimes.
The newly commissioned assets include 62 operational vehicles, 320 motorcycles, Buffalo Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), bullet-resistant vehicles, bulletproof helmets and vests, night-vision devices, thermal imaging equipment, communication gadgets, and other modern security tools designed to improve surveillance and mobility for security personnel.
Speaking during the event, Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the investment underscores his administration’s determination to restore lasting peace and protect lives and property across the state.
He noted that security remains one of the government’s highest priorities, stressing that sustainable development cannot be achieved without a peaceful and secure environment.
According to the governor, Sokoto’s geographical location, sharing borders with Zamfara and Katsina states as well as the Republic of Niger, has exposed parts of the state to persistent security threats. He said these challenges informed the government’s decision to make substantial investments in security equipment and logistics to support the operations of security agencies.
Governor Aliyu explained that beyond the newly commissioned assets, his administration has consistently provided operational support to the military, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other security agencies operating in the state.
He disclosed that the state government has so far procured and distributed more than 200 patrol vehicles and over 250 motorcycles to strengthen security operations across various local government areas. He added that the government has also established the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps, built security facilities, and continued to provide logistics and welfare support to security personnel.
The governor further revealed that the first batch of Forest Guards recruited under the Federal Government’s security initiative has completed training and has already been deployed to strategic locations across the state. According to him, additional recruits are expected to join in subsequent phases to improve surveillance and safeguard forests and rural communities often targeted by criminal elements.
Aliyu expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support in addressing security challenges across the country. He also commended the Armed Forces, the police, and other security agencies for their sacrifices in protecting citizens despite the difficult security environment.
Commissioning the equipment, Defence Minister General Christopher Musa described the investment as a significant milestone in the collective effort to combat insecurity. He said the operational vehicles and modern security equipment would greatly enhance the mobility, efficiency, and response capabilities of security personnel deployed across Sokoto State.
The minister noted that the fight against insecurity requires strong collaboration among the Federal Government, state governments, security agencies, and local communities. He emphasized that while government continues to provide the necessary resources, residents also have an important role to play by supporting security agencies with credible and timely intelligence.
General Musa reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening national security through sustained investments in modern equipment, improved intelligence gathering, personnel training, and closer cooperation among all stakeholders.
He urged security personnel to make effective use of the newly commissioned assets and remain committed to professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
The minister also encouraged community leaders, traditional rulers, religious institutions, and youth groups to continue working closely with security agencies in promoting peace and preventing criminal activities within their communities.
The commissioning of the ₦27.6 billion security assets is expected to significantly improve operational readiness and boost confidence among residents, as authorities intensify efforts to curb banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and other forms of violent crime across Sokoto State and neighbouring communities.
The development reflects the ongoing collaboration between the Federal Government and the Sokoto State Government to strengthen security architecture, enhance public safety, and create a more secure environment for economic growth, social stability, and sustainable development. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
