By Aminu Dalhatu
The newly turbaned Durumbun Gusau, Professor Aminu Ibrahim Gusau, has called for stronger collaboration between the Federal and Zamfara State Governments, improved intelligence gathering and greater community participation to address persistent security challenges in the state.
He made the call while speaking with newsmen in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital, shortly after his installation as Durumbun Gusau by the Emir of Gusau, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Abdulkadir Ibrahim Bello.
Professor Gusau expressed appreciation to the Emir for the honour and urged relevant stakeholders to work together towards restoring lasting peace and security in Zamfara State.
He said tackling insecurity required a comprehensive approach involving security agencies, government institutions, traditional rulers, community leaders and other relevant stakeholders.
Professor Gusau, who described insecurity as a major obstacle to the development of Zamfara State, stressed the need for the Federal Government to work closely with the state government in developing and implementing effective security strategies.
He observed that, Governor Dauda Lawal had demonstrated commitment and is making concerted efforts towards addressing the security situation, adding that, the constitutional control of the military and police largely rested with the Federal Government.
According to him, there is the need for the both levels of government to establish a coordinated framework that would allow them to jointly assess security challenges, develop workable strategies and deploy professionals with the necessary experience to address the situation.
The newly honoured traditional titleholder also emphasised the importance of credible intelligence gathering, warning that, corruption, betrayal and poor coordination could undermine security operations.
He said security strategies should not be restricted to the activities of security personnel alone but must incorporate communities, which he described as important stakeholders in the fight against banditry.
Gusau also advocated the engagement of competent retired military and police personnel, particularly those with proven records of commitment and professionalism.
He maintained that, there were experienced security professionals outside active service whose knowledge and expertise could contribute significantly to restoring peace in Zamfara.
Aminu Gusau who is also the former Director at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, further called for the identification and engagement of individuals capable of developing practical solutions rather than those primarily interested in financial benefits.
He cautioned against allowing corruption and personal interests to undermine government efforts, insisting that, addressing insecurity required sincerity, accountability, cooperation and innovative thinking.
Gusau, however, stressed that prayers remained important in overcoming the security challenges but it should be complemented by practical and sustained efforts from government and citizens.
On his traditional title, Professor Gusau described the honour bestowed on him by the Emir of Gusau as memorable and emotional, saying that, it reflected the importance of doing what is right and leaving a positive legacy for society.
He expressed appreciation to the Emir, Alhaji Abdulkadir Ibrahim Bello , for recognising his contributions and pledged to continue supporting the traditional institution and contributing to the development of the emirate.
He described the Emir as an industrious, humble and dedicated traditional ruler who demonstrated strong commitment to the welfare and development of his people.
Aminu Gusau also commended Governor Dauda Lawal, whom he described as dynamic and energetic, for his efforts towards improving governance and addressing the challenges confronting Zamfara State.
The Durumbun Gusau explained that he was born and raised in Gusau, where he began his educational journey before proceeding to Government Secondary School, Gumi, now known as Unity Secondary School.
He later pursued an academic career at the University of Kansas in the United States, where he lectured for more than ten years and served as Programme Director of the Africana Leadership Institute (ALI)
He subsequently returned to Nigeria after being invited to participate in a recruitment process for the position of Director of Administration and Human Resources at the Nigerian Railway Corporation, where he served for nine years.
Professor Gusau later joined the EFCC, where he served first as Director of Planning, Policy and Statistics and subsequently as Director of Organisational Support, overseeing up to eight units and also served as a Coordinating Director.
He retired upon attaining the age of 60, coinciding with the completion of his secondment.
Aminu Ibrahim Gusau who described his self as retired but not tired, said he had remained actively engaged in public enlightenment, professional development and leadership advocacy.
He explained that, his post-retirement engagements focused on three major areas: anti-corruption, contemporary leadership and ethical values in the workplace.
He said his anti-corruption advocacy was informed by his professional experience at the EFCC, while his leadership lectures focused on the changing demands of leadership in a rapidly evolving world.
He also highlighted the importance of emotional intelligence and understanding the employee life cycle, from the first appointment to retirement, stressing that, every worker should strive to leave a positive legacy.
Professor Aminu Ibrahim Gusau said he had conducted several lectures and engagements, particularly in Kano State, with the support of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and remained committed to sharing his experience for the benefit of society.
He expressed optimism that with genuine cooperation, credible intelligence, responsible leadership and collective determination, Zamfara State and Nigeria could overcome their security challenges.
Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
