Gov Aliyu’s aide applauds FG’s Safe Nigeria Initiative, urges stakeholder buy-in

Gbolahan Salman Sokoto

The Special Adviser to the Governor of Sokoto State on Security, Col. Ahmed Usman (Rtd), has commended the Federal Government for the introduction of the Safe Nigeria Initiative, describing it as a forward-looking strategy aimed at tackling the root causes of insecurity nationwide.

Col. Usman said the initiative’s focus on vulnerable groups—particularly out-of-school youths, internally displaced persons, and young people in conflict-prone communities—marks a decisive shift from reactive security measures to preventive interventions.

He noted that by offering skills acquisition, livelihood opportunities, psycho-social support, and civic education, the programme addresses the socio-economic challenges that often drive young people into crime and violent extremism.

“The Safe Nigeria Initiative is not just about security enforcement. It is about empowering youths with hope, purpose, and sustainable means of livelihood, while strengthening their sense of civic responsibility,” he stated.

The security adviser also lauded the National Counter-Terrorism Centre for leading the implementation of the programme in partnership with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, describing the collaboration as evidence of a coordinated, people-focused security approach.

He highlighted the programme’s target of engaging 11,000 youths aged 15 to 40, stressing that the demographic remains central to efforts at achieving long-term peace and stability.

Col. Usman called on state and local governments to provide the necessary support and community engagement to ensure the success of the initiative, noting that sustainable security can only be achieved through collective action.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Sokoto State Government under Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto to policies and programmes that promote peace, youth empowerment, and inclusive development, urging all stakeholders to embrace the Safe Nigeria Initiative as a shared responsibility toward a safer Nigeria.