Inuwa highlights security reforms in Gombe, launches ‘Unite Against Terror’ campaign

Gombe State Governor and Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has highlighted his administration’s security reforms in Gombe State while launching the “Unite Against Terror” campaign, calling for a united national response, stronger regional cooperation and active citizen participation to combat terrorism and insecurity across Northern Nigeria.

In a statewide broadcast on Monday, the governor described insecurity as the greatest threat to the region’s stability and development, stressing that sustainable development cannot be achieved without lasting peace and security.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and work closely with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, noting that timely intelligence from citizens is critical to preventing attacks and protecting lives and property.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya commended members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security agencies for their dedication and sacrifices in safeguarding the country. He also paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Speaking in his capacity as Chairman of the NSGF, the governor said terrorism could not be defeated through isolated efforts, pointing to porous borders that enable criminal elements to move freely across states. He disclosed that the forum is championing the establishment of a Northern States Security Trust Fund to strengthen collective security financing and improve coordinated responses to regional threats.

He also acknowledged the roles of traditional rulers, religious leaders, community associations, civil society organisations, women and youth groups, describing them as indispensable partners in promoting peace, preventing conflict and strengthening community resilience.

The governor called on security agencies to adopt technology, intelligence-driven operations and community engagement while maintaining professionalism and respect for human rights. He reaffirmed his administration’s support for the Federal Government’s efforts to eliminate terrorism and violent extremism, urging citizens to reject violence, intolerance and division in favour of peace, unity and mutual respect.

Highlighting the security reforms undertaken by his administration since 2019, Governor Inuwa Yahaya said the relative peace currently enjoyed in Gombe State is the result of deliberate investments in the state’s security architecture. He listed the establishment of the Ministry of Internal Security and Ethical Orientation, the creation of the Gombe State Security, Traffic and Environmental Corps (GOSTEC), the formation of Operation Hattara, strengthening local vigilante groups, provision of operational vehicles and logistics to security agencies, establishment of community peace committees and the hosting of two security summits as key measures that have enhanced intelligence gathering, conflict prevention and emergency response across the state.