Amid escalating security crises across nearly every region of Nigeria, both the federal and state governments are stepping up efforts to protect citizens from relentless attacks, insurgency, and banditry.
According to Dr. Kabiru Adamu, head of Beacon Security, Lagos State stands out as one of the most proactive states in developing its own security architecture.
Lagos, he said, has introduced four major measures, including:
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A Security Trust Fund operated independently of the state government
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A functioning emergency hotline and rapid-response system
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Community-based volunteers who work alongside federal security agencies
Northern Nigeria: Multiple Threats, Uneven Responses
Northern Nigeria continues to face a wide spectrum of violence—from Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorism to banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes.
While many states have taken steps to protect their residents, security analysts believe the northern approach remains weak and inconsistent, urging governors to adopt more robust and coordinated measures.
Below is an analysis of efforts taken by some states:
Borno State: Epicenter of Insurgency
For nearly 16 years, Borno has been ravaged by Boko Haram and ISWAP attacks, resulting in thousands of deaths and millions displaced.
Key grassroots initiatives include:
1. Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF)
A volunteer force of youths and adults working with security agencies.
Their role focuses on intelligence gathering, mapping hidden routes, and guiding troops into remote communities.
This CJTF model has since become a benchmark for other northern states.
2. Hunters’ Group
Local hunters, familiar with the terrain, assist in tracking insurgents and identifying forest hideouts.
Zamfara State: Battling Ruthless Banditry
Zamfara remains one of the hardest-hit states by kidnappers and armed bandits.
Its major initiatives include:
1. Vigilante Forces (Yan Sa-kai / Askarawan Zamfara)
Local fighters who sometimes engage bandits or help repel attacks.
2. Security Trust Fund
Unlike Lagos—where private stakeholders manage the fund—
Zamfara’s fund is fully controlled by the state government, Dr. Adamu noted.
Yobe State: Another Frontline State
Bordering Borno, Yobe also suffers regular attacks from Boko Haram and ISWAP.
The state relies on:
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CJTF volunteers
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Local hunters aiding security forces with knowledge of forest hideouts
Plateau State: Ethno-Religious Flashpoints
Plateau has long contended with ethnic clashes and farmer–herder conflicts.
Its security efforts include:
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Strengthened collaboration with federal security agencies
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A dedicated Peace Commission promoting community dialogue and reconciliation
Benue State: Violence and Vigilance
Benue, also plagued by communal conflict, has:
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A Peace Commission similar to Plateau’s
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Local vigilante groups who support security forces and sometimes maintain peace independently
States such as Kaduna and Niger operate similar systems.
Growing Trend: Security Advisers in States
Most northern states have introduced the role of Commissioner for Internal Security or Special Adviser on Security, which Dr. Adamu described as commendable.
However, he expressed doubts about the expertise of some appointees.
Many, he said, are retired military or police officers who understand security operations—but may lack skills in state-level security strategy and system design.