By Milcah Tanimu

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration, under the leadership of Minister Nyesom Wike, has announced plans to strengthen collaboration with the four neighbouring states to address cross-border crimes effectively. The states identified for collaboration are Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, and Kaduna.

Minister Nyesom Wike highlighted the importance of such collaboration in combating insecurity, emphasizing that the FCTA’s efforts would be more successful with the cooperation of neighbouring states. He specifically pointed out that criminals from Niger and Kaduna pose significant challenges to the FCT’s security.

Wike mentioned that the FCTA had initiated efforts to form a security coalition with neighbouring states, but election petitions in the courts delayed its implementation. Now that most of the petitions have been settled, the minister stated that the collaboration would move forward, with the FCT hosting the four states for a meeting in the coming week.

The minister emphasized the need for support from Nasarawa, Kogi, Niger, and Kaduna states, acknowledging the impact of bandit attacks in these areas, particularly in the forested regions shared by FCT and neighbouring states.

While security personnel have periodically combed the forest to address criminal activities, Wike acknowledged the challenges of maintaining a permanent presence due to resource constraints. He highlighted the necessity of practical steps, such as forming joint security outfits or sharing intelligence, to effectively reduce crime.

Wike expressed optimism that, with ongoing security operations and support from Area Councils, insecurity would be addressed proactively. He emphasized the importance of taking measures to either arrest criminals or protect the people when crimes occur, recognizing that complete elimination of criminality may not be feasible.