By Adeyinka Adeniran
Security stakeholders have urged the government to invest more in local policing, saying increased funding for local security forces would help to address the root causes of insecurity and create a more secure environment for the country’s citizens.
They said the move became imperative in view of the security challenges Nigerians are grappling with.
The stakeholders, who converged on Ibadan, at the weekend, said local security forces are often better equipped to understand and respond to the unique security challenges of their communities, and that they have the potential to be a force for positive change.
They spoke at the Scout Association of Nigeria’s 2024 Annual General Meeting, held at the Scout Council Headquarters, Agodi-Gate, Ibadan.
Speaking, the vice-president of the association in the state, Mr. Joseph Alajogun, a retired customs chief, observed that local police forces are uniquely positioned to build trust and cooperation with communities, and they can play a vital role in preventing crime and resolving conflicts.
He noted that, aside increased funding, there should be avenue for increased training and capacity building for local police officers, adding that this would help to ensure that local forces have the skills and resources they need to effectively address security challenges.
He said “The goal is to create a safer and more secure Nigeria, where all citizens can live and work without fear.
“Policing is not just about fighting crime, it’s also about building community trust. Local police forces are able to build this trust because they know their communities and understand the unique challenges they face.
“The current funding and support for local policing is insufficient to meet the challenges of today’s world. If we are serious about addressing the security challenges facing Nigeria, we must invest in our local police forces.
“It’s not enough to simply increase funding for local policing, we must also address the underlying issues that lead to insecurity. This includes tackling poverty, unemployment, and inequality. Without addressing these issues, increased funding for local policing will only provide a temporary solution.
“We need a holistic approach that takes into account all the factors that contribute to insecurity. Only then can we truly create a safe and secure Nigeria for all.
“I can attest to the importance of strong local policing and its impact on the community. When local police officers are well-trained and supported, they are able to make a significant difference in the lives of the people they serve.”
Alajogun, who served Oyo/Osun Customs Area Command for several years as Officer In Charge (OC) Operations, said he could attest to the importance of strong local policing and its impact on the community, adding that when local police officers are well-trained and supported, they are able to make a significant difference in the lives of the people they serve.
In the vein, the state commissioner of the association, Dr. Zack Ekanola, stressed the need for a sustainable approach to addressing the security challenges facing the country.
“Policing is not a quick fix solution, it is a long-term process that requires commitment and investment. Only through a sustained and comprehensive approach can we hope to make a real difference in the lives of our citizens.
“But it is not just a matter of resources, it is also a matter of trust. Local policing requires the cooperation and support of the communities it serves. Without this, any solution will be temporary at best.
“It is not enough to simply pour money into local policing, we must also build the trust and respect of the people. Only then can we hope to create a true culture of safety and security,” he said.
Dr. Ekanola underscored the role of scouting in shaping the character and mindset of over a hundred thousand youths across Oyo State.
He emphasized the Scouts’ commitment to fostering community engagement and service in line with their mission and vision.
During the event, DSC Yahaya Olawale, representing the NSCDC Oyo State Chapter, delivered a lecture on discipline within uniformed organizations. Stressing the importance of discipline as the cornerstone of success, DSC Olawale highlighted various forms of discipline, including self-discipline, task discipline, group discipline, and imposed discipline.
He emphasized the role of discipline in promoting competence, synergy, national integration, and peace, urging Scouts to prioritize continual learning and personal development.
In a show of solidarity, ASP Kehinde Adekoya, representing the Nigerian Police Force, Oyo Command, commended the Scouts for their contributions to maintaining peace and harmony in the state.
ASP Adekoya encouraged further collaboration and support to ensure continued progress and prosperity.
