Kogi State is a hidden gem in Nigeria, located in the central part of the country. It is often known as a transit state, as it serves as a passageway for people traveling from the northern region of Nigeria to the south, east, and west. The state also has borders with about ten other states in the country, including the federal capital city, Abuja.
Being a transit state, Kogi is constantly bustling with people from various parts of the country. However, this also means that the state faces unique challenges when it comes to security. The occasional intrusion of terrorists, such as Boko Haram and ISWAP, is a constant threat to the state’s safety.
Additionally, there is a significant influx of people from the northern region, who come to Kogi in search of manual jobs, commercial motorcycle business, and other means of livelihood without proper accommodation arrangements. This poses a significant internal security threat to the state.
As a concerned citizen of Kogi State, I believe it is essential to address these security challenges and come up with effective measures to eradicate them.
The first step towards achieving this is by acknowledging that there is a problem and understanding the root causes of these challenges. The state and federal government should work together to conduct thorough research and gather data on the movements and activities of people within the state. This will help identify potential security threats and develop appropriate strategies to combat them.
One of the crucial security measures that should be adopted is the establishment of proper border control. With Kogi’s borders with ten other states, it is essential to have strict border control policies to monitor and regulate the movement of people and goods. This will help prevent the entry of illegal immigrants, arms, and other harmful substances into the state.
Another important measure is the implementation of a proper housing plan for incoming migrants. As mentioned earlier, many people from the northern region come to Kogi in search of jobs and other opportunities. However, without proper accommodation arrangements, they end up living in shanty towns, which become breeding grounds for crimes and violence. Providing affordable and secure housing for these individuals will not only alleviate their living conditions but also reduce the security risks to the state.
Furthermore, creating employment opportunities within the state can also help reduce the influx of people from the northern region. When there are more job opportunities within the state, there will be less need for people to migrate, ultimately reducing the security risks associated with the influx of people.
In conclusion, Kogi State may face security challenges as a transit state, but with the right strategies and measures, these challenges can be eradicated. The state and federal government should work hand in hand to tackle these issues, and the citizens also have a role to play by being more vigilant and reporting any suspicious activities or individuals. We all deserve to live in a safe and secure environment, and it is our collective responsibility to make that happen.
– Benjamin Ibrahim, a Retired Permanent Secretary, writes from Lokoja.
