In a decisive move to address the escalating insecurity in Kontagora and surrounding areas, the Commander of the Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery, Major General Zakari Abubakar, convened a high-level security and stakeholders' meeting at the Military Cantonment in Kontagora.

The maiden forum brought together key stakeholders, including heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, politicians, retired military officers, and members of the academic community from Kontagora, Rijau, and Mariga Local Government Areas.

In his opening remarks, General Abubakar emphasized the need for unity and collective responsibility in confronting the security challenges facing the region. He urged participants to set aside personal and political differences and engage in honest dialogue to develop sustainable solutions.

“Security is everyone’s responsibility,” he said. “We must work together, regardless of our backgrounds, to restore peace in our communities. Peace is a universal language and a prerequisite for any meaningful development.”

The Army Commander underscored the importance of timely and credible intelligence sharing, stressing that collaboration among stakeholders would enhance the effectiveness of security operations. He also called on religious leaders to intensify prayers for peace and encouraged local government chairmen and community heads to support ongoing security efforts.

Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji, lauded the Corps Commander’s initiative, describing the meeting as unprecedented in Kontagora. He expressed optimism that the forum would strengthen ties among stakeholders and improve inter-agency cooperation.

The Speaker also highlighted the complex nature of insecurity in the state, including kidnapping, cattle rustling, and communal conflicts. He called for strong political will and coordination to disrupt the criminal networks that often operate across local and national borders.

Also speaking at the forum, retired Major General Salisu Sa’id advised residents to desist from aiding criminal elements and encouraged the public to provide actionable information to security agencies. “Kontagora is known for its hospitality,” he said. “We must uphold that reputation to ensure peace and development.”

Major General John Sokoya, Commander of the Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATRAC), echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of community cooperation and intelligence gathering to proactively respond to threats.

Other participants at the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to supporting security agencies in restoring peace across the region.

The event was attended by dignitaries and representatives from Rijau, Mariga, and Kontagora, including serving and retired military personnel, traditional leaders, religious clerics, political actors, and security stakeholders.