Nasarawa State governor, Abdullahi Sule, has urged Nigerians to close ranks against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping, insisting that security is a joint responsibility of citizens and government.
In an address in Lafia, Sule said peace and security remain the bedrock of any prosperous society.
“Our ability to live, work, worship, educate our children and pursue our aspirations depends on the safety and stability of our communities,” he said.
The governor noted that Nigeria still battles terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other crimes, adding that unity is crucial to defeat forces threatening national peace.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for intensifying military operations, boosting intelligence gathering, investing in security infrastructure and fostering collaboration among agencies. The efforts, he said, are yielding results.
Sule said Nasarawa has aligned with federal efforts by supporting security agencies with logistics, strengthening community security, promoting intelligence sharing, and working with traditional and religious leaders.
The state, he added, has also invested in early warning systems and improved response capabilities.
“But government and security agencies cannot win this battle alone,” Sule warned. “Every citizen has a role. We must stay alert. We must report suspicious movements, strange activities and individuals threatening our peace.”
He urged residents to reject extremism, criminality and divisive tendencies.
“Terrorists thrive in secrecy. They succeed when communities keep silent. But when citizens work with security agencies, criminals lose their safe havens,” he said.
Sule called on residents to rise above ethnic, religious and political differences.
“Nasarawa State is greater than any individual or group interest. Together, we can preserve the peace that makes development possible,” he stated.
He echoed Tinubu’s charge: “Let’s unite against terror. If you see something, say something.