Bauchi State Governor Mohammed Bala has called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture, stressing the need for stronger collaboration among security agencies and greater involvement of citizens in tackling insecurity across the country.
Bala made the remarks during a solidarity visit to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde at his Ikolaba residence in Ibadan.
The visit was led by members of the leadership of the Allied People’s Movement (APM).
Addressing journalists after a closed-door meeting with Makinde, the Bauchi governor said the country’s security framework must be reviewed to improve operational effectiveness and address persistent security challenges.
According to him, enhanced cooperation among security agencies, coupled with active participation by citizens, is crucial to curbing criminal activities and restoring public confidence.
“The nation’s security architecture requires scrutiny to birth greater commitment and better synergy among security operatives as well as between the security agencies and the citizens,” Bala said.
The governor also expressed concern over the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15, describing the incident as one that has attracted nationwide attention and concern.
He sympathised with Governor Makinde over the ordeal of the victims and their families, while expressing confidence in the Oyo governor’s efforts to secure their release.
Bala assured Makinde of the support of the Bauchi State Government and its people in the ongoing efforts to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.
“We are here to encourage him that what he is doing to ensure their release is being noticed by the whole nation. We join, on behalf of myself, the government and people of Bauchi State, to commiserate with him and to encourage him to ensure that these Nigerians are released,” he said.
Highlighting measures adopted in Bauchi State to improve security, Bala pointed to community engagement programmes designed to boost public awareness and strengthen cooperation between residents and security agencies.
He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and refrain from assisting criminal elements, noting that public cooperation remains a key factor in addressing insecurity.
The governor further linked the growing wave of criminal activities across the country to economic hardship and broader governance challenges, urging citizens to play an active role in shaping the nation’s future through responsible electoral choices.
He called on Nigerians to elect credible leaders in future elections, saying good leadership remains critical to addressing many of the country’s challenges.
Bala also congratulated Governor Makinde on his emergence as the presidential candidate of the Allied People’s Movement, describing him as a dynamic and visionary leader with the capacity to deliver effective governance and national development.
Members of the delegation included APM National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, and the party’s Bauchi State governorship candidate, Yakubu Adamu.
