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Northwest Governors Unite in Zamfara as Gov. Dauda Lawal Unveils Community Protection Guards

Katsina City News
31 Jan, 2024
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Gusau, Zamfara - January 31, 2024

In a collaborative effort to address escalating security challenges, the Northwest Governors converged in Zamfara, witnessing the official launch of the State Community Protection Guards (CPG) by Governor Dauda Lawal.

The grand graduation ceremony for the inaugural batch of the Community Protection Guards (Askarawan Zamfara) unfolded at the Trade Fair Complex in Gusau on Wednesday, with dignitaries from Jigawa, Kebbi, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, and Sokoto gracing the event.

According to a statement from the Governor's Spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, Zamfara State is employing a comprehensive approach to combat current and future security challenges. Governor Lawal, in his address, highlighted the significance of the initiative.

"Last year, Governor Dauda Lawal sanctioned the enlistment of 5,200 guards across 14 local government areas. Today marks the graduation of the first batch comprising 2,645 community protection guards," the spokesperson stated.

Governor Lawal, speaking at the ceremony, emphasized his administration's dedication to gradual reforms across various sectors to foster development and instill order.

"While we strive for progress, the daunting challenge of insecurity must be addressed. This led to the establishment of the Community Protection Guards, known as Askarawa. The rigorous screening process across the 14 Local Government Areas ensured the enrollment of eligible volunteers into the outfit."

Governor Lawal expressed gratitude to the people for their electoral mandate, stating, "We will never take for granted the message of the people of our state through their votes in March 2023."

During the ceremony, Dr. Dikko Radda, the Katsina State Governor and Chairman of the Northwest Governors, reiterated their collective decision not to negotiate with bandits.

"Regardless of political affiliation, we are committed to never negotiating with bandits. Today, we unite against banditry and insecurity in the Northwest," stated Governor Radda.

The occasion's Chairman, General Aliyu Muhammad Gusau (Retired), commended the Zamfara State Government for establishing the Community Protection Guards (CPG), recognizing the importance of such initiatives in fostering regional security.