Voice of Nigeria reports that Kwara State Police Commissioner, Victor Olaiya, has initiated a high-level strategic security meeting to address ongoing security challenges and enhance coordination across the state.

The meeting, which took place at the Police Officers’ Mess in the Government Reserved Area (GRA), Ilorin, was attended by key stakeholders. These included the chairpersons of the 16 local government areas, traditional leaders from various communities, and leaders of the Vigilante and Hunter groups across the 16 LGAs, as well as the Senior Special Assistant on Security to the Executive Governor of Kwara State.

In his address, the Police Commissioner discussed the recurring incidents of criminal activities in parts of the state, emphasising the need to strengthen collaboration between different local security outfits. Olaiya stressed the importance of a unified approach, involving the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, local hunters, the Miyetti Allah, and Gaa Allah, to effectively safeguard communities from criminal elements.

Olaiya beckoned on the Local Government Chairmen to enhance security operations in their areas by ensuring that recruitment into the various security groups is conducted thoroughly.

He stressed that background checks should be performed to ensure that recruits have no criminal history.

The meeting included a session where representatives from each Local Government Area shared their concerns and experiences which was addressed by the Police Commissioner.

The Police Commissioner assured them that their challenges would be reviewed and resolved.

Muyideen Aliyu, the SSA on Security to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRaham AbdulRazaq, who spoke on behalf of the state government; highlighted the Governor’s ongoing security initiatives and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity across the State.

He noted that measures are being planned to ensure the safety and protection of all citizens.

In addition, the SSA announced that the Kwara State Government has approved a standardized uniform for all security personnel operating under these groups, symbolizing a unified front against criminal activities.

The strategic meeting marks a significant step toward fostering collaboration between traditional security groups and the police in the ongoing fight against kidnapping and other criminal activities in Kwara State.