Kano govt commissions Neighbourhood Watch Corps to boost security

The administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in Kano State has followed the example of Lagos State by commissioning the Kano State Neighbourhood Watch Corps to enhance internal security.

The event, which featured the unveiling of 2,000 trained security personnel, is also aimed at strengthening the protection of lives and property across the state’s 44 local government areas.

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The commissioning ceremony, which marked the official take-off of the community-based security outfit, took place during a passing-out parade at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, on Tuesday.

Speaking at the event, Governor Yusuf said the Neighbourhood Watch Corps was established to bring security closer to the people by operating within local communities, leveraging grassroots intelligence and ensuring rapid response to security threats.

He explained that the corps would play a critical role in curbing crimes such as armed robbery, thuggery, street violence, phone snatching and other community-level security challenges.

According to the governor, the newly trained personnel comprise 1,870 males and 130 females, who will be deployed across all 44 Local Government Areas of Kano State to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies.

Governor Yusuf noted that the Neighbourhood Watch Corps is a key component of his administration’s broader security reform agenda, which emphasises community participation, intelligence-driven operations and strong collaboration with the police and other security agencies.

He urged the personnel to carry out their duties with professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights, while assuring them of the state government’s continued support.

As part of the programme, the governor also unveiled operational logistics for the corps, including 88 Hilux patrol vehicles and 440 motorcycles, to enhance mobility and ensure effective coverage of both urban and rural areas.

Also speaking at the occasion, Dikko Umar Radda, Chairman of the North-West Governors’ Forum and Governor of Katsina State, described the initiative as a major milestone in addressing security challenges in the state.

Speaking on behalf of the Emirate Council, Muhammadu Sanusi II, emir of Kano called on neighbouring states to collaborate in addressing security challenges across the region.

The event was attended by government officials, security chiefs, traditional rulers and residents, who hailed the initiative as a significant step towards improving security in Kano State.