Gov Abba Yusuf Backs State Police, Says It Will Strengthen Security Nationwide

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has publicly expressed strong support for the establishment of State Police, describing it as a vital step toward resolving Nigeria’s persistent security challenges.

The governor made this position known on Tuesday during the graduation ceremony of 2,000 operatives of the Kano State Neighbourhood Watch Corps, an event held at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano. According to him, Nigeria’s growing security concerns require solutions that go beyond conventional approaches.

Governor Yusuf emphasized that lasting peace and social stability can only be achieved when effective security frameworks are combined with employment generation and economic empowerment. He noted that young people who remain unemployed and disengaged are more vulnerable to criminal activities, making job creation an essential component of crime prevention.

In his remarks, the governor explained that introducing state-controlled policing would significantly strengthen existing security agencies and improve coordination in addressing security threats nationwide. He stressed that state police would not replace federal security institutions but would instead complement their efforts.

Speaking on the significance of the newly trained personnel, Yusuf stated that the graduation of the 2,000 young men and women represents more than just a security initiative. He explained that the programme has removed thousands of youths from the streets and integrated them into meaningful public service.

According to him, the graduates are now actively contributing to community safety while also building sustainable careers, earning legitimate incomes, and serving as positive examples for younger generations. He described the initiative as a practical demonstration of how security and employment policies can work together.

Governor Yusuf further highlighted that decentralising policing structures would allow individual states to respond more effectively to security issues. He noted that local authorities possess better knowledge of their environments, cultural dynamics, and specific security challenges, which enables faster and more targeted responses.

He added that insecurity in Nigeria requires collective responsibility and innovative thinking, stressing that a properly structured and well-regulated state police system would strengthen grassroots security while supporting federal law enforcement agencies in maintaining law and order.

The governor confirmed that the 2,000 Neighbourhood Watch Corps operatives will be deployed across all 44 local government areas of Kano State, where they are expected to work closely with other security agencies to enhance public safety