By Ndahi Marama, Maiduguri

The Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 15, AIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, has convened an emergency security stakeholders’ meeting in Maiduguri to address rising security threats, including isolated attacks, banditry, kidnapping, and unregulated movement of people and goods in Borno State.

Speaking during the meeting at the Police headquarters in Maiduguri on Monday, AIG Onwuemelie stressed the importance of collaboration between security agencies and local stakeholders to build sustainable security frameworks.

According to him, despite considerable progress in counter-insurgency and restoration of civil authority across communities, Borno must remain vigilant as the state is still facing confronting threats like banditry, highway robbery, kidnapping for ransom, youth restiveness, among others.

He urged stakeholders to share responsibility in ensuring security, highlighting the critical role of grassroots intelligence, proper documentation, and community engagement.

“This engagement is part of our efforts to consolidate gains made in the fight against insecurity and align with the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun’s strategic vision to reduce crime by 40 percent nationwide in 2025,” the AIG stated.

“Despite considerable progress in counter-insurgency and the restoration of civil authority in many communities, we must remain vigilant,” he added. “We are still confronted with threats such as isolated insurgent attacks, banditry, highway robbery, kidnapping, youth restiveness, and unregulated movement of people and goods.”

“Security is everyone’s responsibility. It begins with vigilance, whether in our homes, places of business, schools, or places of worship and transit.”

As the supervising police formation overseeing Borno and Yobe States, the Zone is committed to establishing effective communication channels for feedback and emergency management.

The AIG reiterated Zone 15’s commitment to enhancing feedback mechanisms, increasing emergency response efficiency, and promoting early warning systems.

Earlier in his welcome address, Borno Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammadu Yusufu, said the gathering relates to the relative peace after over a decade of Boko Haram insurgency, as people return to their ancestral homes.

He noted that many security challenges have emerged, necessitating the meeting to discuss ways to curb emerging crimes in the state.

The CP called on youths to raise awareness about the negative repercussions of crime among their peers and requested the support of the Civilian Joint Task Force in combating crimes and criminality.

He advised stakeholders to intensify efforts in tackling security challenges, ensuring justice for survivors of violence against women, and upholding the rule of law.

The meeting brought together top security personnel and community stakeholders, including representatives from ASUU, CJTF, transport unions, GSM operators, women and youth leaders, hoteliers, and members of the press.