Bauchi State Government has trained and deployed a total of 2,178 operatives of the Vigilante and Forestry Security Service Agency to strengthen security across forests and communities in the state.
Speaking during the passing out parade of the recruits, held at the Police Training School, Bauchi on Saturday, State Governor, Sen Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, said that the establishment and expansion of the agency formed part of efforts to tackle security challenges, including banditry, illegal mining, and other criminal activities threatening public safety and the environment.
Bala Mohammed, who was represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the new operatives and conventional security agencies, stressing that joint efforts would enhance peace, security, and stability throughout the state.
He urged the personnel to conduct themselves with integrity and professionalism, warning that any act capable of eroding public confidence would not be tolerated.
According to him, discipline and commitment must remain the guiding principles of their service.
Also speaking, the Chief Security Adviser to the Governor, retired DIG Sani Mohammed, earlier, explained that the recruitment exercise was aimed at deepening community participation in security management and improving the safety of residents.
He urged the newly trained personnel to remain law-abiding and to carry out their responsibilities in accordance with established laws and the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) governing security operations.
The Adviser emphasized the need for professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights while discharging their duties.
The retired DIG also called on traditional rulers to warmly receive the trainees into their respective communities, provide guidance, and work closely with them in maintaining peace and security.
He encouraged community leaders to develop local operational guidelines that would complement existing security frameworks and ensure effective collaboration between security personnel and community members.
In a remark, the State Commissioner of Police, Sani Omolori Aliyu, represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police Musa M. Bulus, lauded the state government for its continued investment in security, noting that the newly recruited operatives would help boost surveillance and crime prevention at the grassroots level.
He further advised the officers to respect the rights of citizens, carry out their responsibilities within the confines of the law, and maintain close cooperation with the police and other security agencies in safeguarding lives and property.
The CP emphasized that all security operations must be conducted within the framework of the law and in accordance with the training they had received.
According to him, the true measure of their training would be demonstrated through their conduct, professionalism, and respect for the rights of citizens while carrying out their responsibilities.
The Commissioner reminded the trainees that they would be held accountable for their actions and encouraged them to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity, and service to their communities.
