By Khadijah Aliyu
The Kano State Government says it has secured approval from the Federal Government for the establishment of additional military bases in some parts of the state affected by security challenges.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf disclosed this after a meeting with Chairmen of the 44 local government councils, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly and other senior government officials.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Taju Usman, who disclosed this to Journalists, said the meeting focused on security, infrastructure and human capital development.
According to him, Governor Yusuf had met with the Minister of Defence, where the need for additional military bases in areas vulnerable to security threats was discussed and agreed upon.
Alhaji Usman identified Shanono, Bichi, Gwarzo, Doguwa and Tudun Wada among the areas being considered for the establishment of the new military bases.
He said the bases would complement existing security structures, including the Nigeria Police Force, Neighbourhood Watch and Forest Guards, to enhance surveillance and facilitate rapid response to security threats.
The commissioner also disclosed that contracts worth 27.8 billion naira had been awarded for the establishment of Computer-Based Test and Information and Communication Technology centres in each of the 44 local government areas.
He said the centres would provide students with improved access to internet facilities for JAMB examinations and other computer-based tests, adding that work would commence immediately.
On healthcare, Usman pointed out that preparations have reached advanced stage to provide one rural ambulance to every ward across the state.
He said two drivers would be employed for each ambulance, with preference given to qualified residents of the respective wards.
The commissioner stressed that the state government will establish electric vehicle charging points at strategic locations in Kano metropolis as a pilot project, alongside the installation of solar-powered streetlights across the 44 local government areas.
Usman hinted that the government had also resolved to appoint 50 special reporters for each local government area and 35 advisers for local government chairmen, while the monthly women empowerment programme would continue.
He said the measures were aimed at strengthening grassroots governance, improving communication, enhancing security and improving the welfare of residents.
Recall that several Local Government Areas in Kano State, including Bagwai, Shanono, Ghari, Tsanyawa, Gwarzo and Tudun Wada, have in recent times faced growing security challenges, with reports of attacks and the activities of armed bandits raising concerns among residents and community leaders.
The situation has prompted calls from various stakeholders for the state government and relevant security agencies to strengthen security measures, enhance intelligence gathering and deploy additional personnel to vulnerable communities to prevent further attacks and protect lives and property.
Editing By Godwin Duru
