Katsina Launches Community Corps as Sirika Receives New Appointment

• Former President Muhammadu Buhari attended the Katsina State Community Watch Corps graduation, designed to assist in security efforts
• A Katsina State Security Intervention Trust Fund Committee, including Hadi Sirika, was established to mobilize funds to address security challenges

Former President Muhammadu Buhari, accompanied by several governors from the North Western States, graced the graduation and passing out the Katsina State Community Watch Corps parade on Tuesday. The corps was established to augment the efforts of security agencies in Katsina, particularly in combatting banditry and other forms of criminality plaguing the state.

This initiative drew in 1,466 men, women, both young and elderly, carefully selected from across the state, with a focus on frontline local government areas. Their localized knowledge is expected to enhance their effectiveness in operations, given their familiarity with the terrain in most cases.

These dedicated individuals underwent rigorous training in various aspects, including weapons handling, counterterrorism, first aid, and other security-related activities. They aim to support and collaborate with security agencies to address security challenges in their local government areas.

Among the notable attendees at the event were governors from Kano, Yobe, Zamfara, and representatives of Jigawa and Kaduna, among others. In addition to the political figures, dignitaries present included the Emirs of Katsina and Daura, ministers, and members of the national assembly, among others.

In other developments, former Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika, has been appointed as a Katsina State Security Intervention Trust Fund Committee member. This committee’s primary responsibility is to mobilize funds to bolster efforts to tackle security challenges within the state.

The committee’s lineup includes prominent businessman Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, Senators Abu Ibrahim and Ibrahim Idah. Alhaji Abdullahi Faskari, the Secretary to the State Government, chairs the committee. Its composition extends to include the commissioners of Finance, Information, Security and Home Affairs, the state Head of Service, the Special Adviser for Victims of Banditry and Internally Displaced Persons, as well as a representative from the Emirs of Katsina and Daura. The state Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, among others, is also part of the committee. The Permanent Secretary of the Cabinet Office serves as the Secretary.

Governor Radda has tasked the committee with identifying prominent indigenes and corporate organizations capable of providing financial support. Additionally, they are expected to suggest areas where these funds can be optimally deployed. The committee is also entrusted with recommending trustees for the Security Trust Fund and co-opting individuals who can contribute to the successful execution of this crucial task.