The Nigeria Police Force in Jigawa State has underscored the importance of community policing and grassroots intelligence gathering as critical tools for combating crime and ensuring public safety across the state.
The State Commissioner of Police, Haruna A. Yahaya, made this known yesterday while presenting a paper titled “Community Policing and Community-Based Intelligence Gathering Initiatives” to participants of Course 48 of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College during their study tour to Jigawa State.
The visiting delegation was led by Brig. Gen. B.O. Omopariola and coordinated by Navy Capt. B.A. Bassey.
Community Collaboration Key to Modern Policing
Speaking during the session, Yahaya emphasised that modern policing can no longer succeed without strong collaboration between security agencies and local communities.
He noted that intelligence provided by residents has played a significant role in helping the Police Command prevent and detect crimes across the state.
According to him, the Command has recorded notable successes in tackling offences such as:
- Armed robbery
- Motorcycle snatching
- Drug abuse
- Rape
- Culpable homicide
- Mob violence
- Farmer-herder conflicts
These achievements, he said, were largely driven by credible intelligence supplied by members of the public.
Strengthening Grassroots Partnerships
The commissioner further disclosed that the Command has intensified partnerships with key community stakeholders, including:
- Traditional rulers
- Religious leaders
- Youth and women groups
- Vigilantes
- Hunters
- Forest guards
- Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) groups
He explained that these collaborations are aimed at enhancing intelligence gathering and promoting proactive crime prevention strategies.
Alignment with National Policing Vision
Yahaya noted that the state’s community policing efforts are in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, which prioritises intelligence-led policing, stakeholder engagement, and active public participation in security management.
He described intelligence as the bedrock of effective policing, urging residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and actionable information capable of preventing threats to peace and stability.
Commendation and Inter-Agency Cooperation
The police commissioner also commended the Commandant of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Air Vice Marshal Alfred Olugbenga Shogbanmu, for fostering strategic military and security leadership through both academic and practical engagements.
He expressed optimism that the study tour would further strengthen inter-agency collaboration and knowledge sharingamong security institutions in Nigeria.
Commitment to Sustained Security
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining community policing initiatives and deepening collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and security in Jigawa State.