The Delta State Government has described its maiden Security Summit as a significant step towards building a community based and intelligence driven security framework aimed at tackling emerging threats across the state.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the summit held at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the initiative reflects a growing understanding that sustainable security can only be achieved through collective action involving government, security agencies and citizens.
The summit, themed “Security: A Collective Responsibility,” brought together participants from across the state, including security chiefs, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community representatives, youth and women groups, civil society organizations and local government chairmen.
Aniagwu noted that although the Delta State Government has consistently supported security agencies with logistics, operational assistance and other resources to enhance their performance, long term peace and stability require stronger collaboration between security institutions and the communities they protect.
He emphasized that intelligence gathering remains the cornerstone of modern security operations, stressing that timely and credible information from residents, traditional leaders and other stakeholders is vital for crime prevention and the protection of lives and property.
According to him, the summit created an important platform for dialogue and engagement, allowing communities to communicate their security concerns directly to relevant authorities while giving security agencies the opportunity to improve public understanding of their strategies and operational activities.
“The summit is not merely about discussions. It is about building trust, strengthening partnerships and creating a framework that enables communities to become active participants in securing their environment,” Aniagwu said.
The commissioner disclosed that the state government would continue to strengthen community based security initiatives through closer collaboration with vigilante groups and other local security structures to enhance surveillance, intelligence gathering and early warning mechanisms.
He further stressed the need for a robust monitoring and feedback system to ensure that resolutions reached at the summit are effectively implemented and translated into measurable improvements in security across the state.
Aniagwu said the initiative aligns with the vision of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to safeguard lives and property while promoting sustainable peace and development throughout Delta State.
“When government, security agencies and citizens work together, intelligence flows more effectively, threats are detected early and communities become stronger partners in safeguarding lives and property. Security is a collective responsibility that demands the commitment of everyone,” he stated.
The summit was attended by Governor Oborevwori, senior government officials and heads of security agencies, including representatives of the Army, Navy, Police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, forest guards and other strategic stakeholders.
Observers say the broad participation of traditional institutions, religious bodies, civil society organizations and community groups demonstrates Delta State’s determination to adopt a whole of society approach to addressing security challenges and sustaining peace in communities across the state.
