By: Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbi
Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State - The National Orientation Agency (NOA), Kebbi State Directorate, has organized a crucial security awareness campaign for motorcycle riders in Birnin Kebbi. The event, themed "Pathway to National Cohesion, Development, and Unity," aimed to sensitize motorcycle riders to their vulnerabilities amidst rising insecurity, banditry, and arms smuggling.
The State Director of NOA, Kebbi, Mallam Muhammed Nasir, outlined the specific threats faced by motorcycle riders and offered practical mitigation tips. "We are here today to enlighten our motorcycle riders on the dangers they face and how to mitigate them," he said. Mallam Nasir lauded the Director General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, for spearheading this nationwide program.
The Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris Kauran Gwandu, was commended for his efforts in combating insecurity. Mallam Nasir noted that the Governor has provided patrol vehicles, motorcycles, and logistical support to security agencies in the state.
Alh. Umar Ahmed mni (Umar Magaji Barade), the Representative of the District Head of Gwadangaji, shared a poignant account of a motorcycle rider's death following a bandit attack. "We must be vigilant and take necessary precautions to avoid falling prey to these bandits," he emphasized.
The Divisional Police Officer, Central Market Area, Yahaya Abdullahi, representing the Commissioner of Police, appealed to the riders to promptly report any suspicious movements to security agents. "Your proactive information sharing can prevent avoidable deaths and loss of property," he stressed.
Other prominent speakers, including the Deputy Comptroller, Nigeria Immigration Service, Bello Aliyu Gwadangaji, and the Deputy Commandant, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Ibrahim Usman, provided valuable insights and advice.
In a forward-looking announcement, Mallam Nasir stated NOA's intention to collaborate with the Kebbi State Government to organize a specialized session for Traditional Leaders. "We will work with the State Government to enhance cross-border security awareness among Traditional Leaders," he said.
The Chairman of the Motorcycle Riders Association, Mallam Nafiu Zaki, expressed gratitude to the Kebbi State Government and NOA for organizing the impactful awareness campaign. "We pledge to diligently digest and implement all the recommended mitigation strategies for the safety of our members and the overall peace of society," he said.
The campaign is expected to increase awareness among motorcycle riders, enhance their adoption of safety measures, and contribute to reducing incidents of bandit attacks and motorcycle snatching.
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Security