In a colorful event on Wednesday, Governor Malam Umar Namadi inaugurated the first batch of security personnel under Jigawa State’s Safe Schools Initiative.
The ceremony, which also served as a passing-out parade for the guards, was held at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Panisau, Dutse.
This initiative, the first of its kind in Nigeria, aims to safeguard schools, hospitals, courts, and water facilities across the state, with a total of 9,974 security guards being recruited under the program.
The personnel will be deployed under three indigenous private security companies assigned to different senatorial zones: Kare-Kallo for Jigawa Central, JIMAD for Jigawa Northwest, and Corporate Security for Jigawa Northeast. The recruits, drawn from all parts of the state, include degree, NCE, and diploma holders and will serve within their respective communities.
Speaking at the inauguration, Governor Namadi reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting public facilities and ensuring their sustainability.
“This initiative is designed to protect the investments made in these public facilities. We have witnessed rampant destruction of these institutions by vandals who steal windows, furniture, and other essential materials. As a responsible government, we have taken proactive steps to prevent such losses,” he said.
The governor also emphasized that the programme is not just about security but also about job creation, stating, “Beyond securing public assets, this initiative also provides meaningful employment for our youth. Each of the 9,974 recruits has been selected from their respective communities and will be responsible for securing institutions within their locality.”
He called on community members to support the security personnel, saying, “Ideally, these institutions should be safeguarded by the communities themselves, but this initiative provides a structured approach to community-based security.”
Governor Namadi also underscored the importance of local content in the implementation of the initiative.
“We have partnered with three independent private security companies, all of which are indigenous to Jigawa State. The entire process is a local initiative, designed to ensure that the security of our institutions remains in the hands of Jigawa’s own people.”
Addressing the newly recruited security personnel, he urged them to carry out their duties with integrity and professionalism, assuring them of the government’s commitment to their welfare.
“Your uniforms are a symbol of authority—to protect, not to intimidate or harass members of your communities. The government has committed over ₦3.4 billion annually to this initiative, demonstrating our dedication to safeguarding these critical facilities.”
The governor further called on the private security firms involved in the programme to ensure fair treatment of the guards and also urged local government chairmen to support the initiative.
“For the security companies, we have agreed on fair and reasonable wages for the guards. We kindly ask that you treat them well, ensure timely payments, and provide the necessary supervision to uphold high standards of security. I call on you to ensure the success of this initiative by providing oversight and ensuring that both the guards and the security firms fulfill their responsibilities effectively.”
Governor Namadi further described the initiative as part of his administration’s broader commitment to youth empowerment.
“Out of millions of youths, 9,974 of you have been selected for this important task.
” This initiative is part of our broader commitment to youth empowerment. As a government, we promised during our election campaign to create opportunities for young people, and today is another fulfillment of that promise.”
He assured the people of Jigawa State that his administration would continue to implement programs that promote job creation and economic stability, adding that the government will continue to implement and expand such programs to ensure that every citizen of Jigawa State has a means of livelihood. Our administration remains committed to strengthening the state’s economy so that every resident can live a dignified and comfortable life.”
The governor commended the committee that organized the recruitment exercise, as well as the security agencies that supported the initiative, for their support and professionalism in ensuring its success.
Usman Mohammed Zaria
