Plateau Local Governments Plan New Security Outfits to Enhance Safety

Chairmen of the 17 local government areas in Plateau State have decided to set up officially recognized security groups. This move aims to help existing security agencies address ongoing violence and safety issues in the state.

The announcement was made by Ephraim Usman Gar, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, during a press conference in Jos. He explained that the new security initiative will be based on a successful model already used in Wase Local Government Area.

Gar noted that Wase has trained its own security personnel, and other local governments are expected to follow this example. He stated that the Wase security team completed a three-month training program with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

The formal registration of these security outfits will help improve communication and cooperation between local security teams and traditional security forces. The Wase Rock Security Network Limited, which recently graduated 140 officers, received patrol motorcycles and vehicles to enhance their operations.

This plan comes as Plateau State faces ongoing security challenges, including attacks that have harmed local communities. Gar also shared that his ministry’s recent inspection tour assessed various projects across the state, ensuring that public funds are used effectively.

Among the projects inspected were healthcare facilities, youth centers, and infrastructure improvements in different regions of the state. The new security outfits will add to existing community security efforts, which include Operation Rainbow and Neighbourhood Watch, established to support safety operations.