Governor Idris Inspects 500 Trained Vigilantes, Vows to Strengthen State Security

By Umar Faruk

Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State - January 27, 2026 (Series News Online)

Governor Nasir Idris has reiterated his administration's commitment to strengthening security in Kebbi State, saying the training of vigilantes is a crucial step towards ensuring the safety of lives and property.

The Governor made this statement on Monday while inspecting 500 vigilantes and hunters who underwent a refresher course and tactical combat skills training at a camp in Kalgo Local Government Area.

"I came here personally to assess your preparedness. When you return to your communities, you must respond swiftly and assist security agencies whenever the need arises," Governor Idris said.

The training, which is aimed at complementing the efforts of conventional security agencies, is part of a larger initiative to equip community-based security operatives with modern skills.

"This special plan became necessary because the existing security agencies, particularly in our state, are overstretched. That is why trained vigilantes must support them," the Governor noted.

Governor Idris disclosed that 3,000 vigilantes have been approved for training, with 500 trained per batch to avoid overstretching facilities. He assured that the state government would provide all necessary funding and logistics to sustain the programme.

"We will provide all necessary funding and logistics to sustain this programme. Security remains a top priority of our administration, and any initiative capable of enabling residents to 'sleep with both eyes closed' will receive full government support," he said.

The Governor also directed the inclusion of women in subsequent training batches, instructing the Adviser on Security to work with the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security to make adequate provisions for female participants.

Special Adviser on Security, Rtd. Col. Danladi Ribah Zuru, said the vigilante initiative was conceived shortly after Governor Idris assumed office and has since gained national attention.

"The current training followed Federal Government approval to enable vigilantes legally assist security agencies. Training areas include human rights, intelligence gathering, minor tactics, weapon handling, signals, and first aid," Col. Ribah explained.

The trainees are drawn from the 21 local government areas and were previously trained under the last administration. They are now undergoing refresher courses facilitated by instructors from the DSS, Nigerian Police Force, Civil Defence, Army, and Vigilante Group of Nigeria.

The Governor has provided 32 vehicles and 511 motorcycles to support operations and approved salaries and training allowances before the commencement of the programme.