Sokoto Seeks Stronger Security Cooperation As North-West Battles Rising Threats

The Sokoto State Government has called for stronger security cooperation and increased investment in modern defence technology to tackle terrorism, banditry and other security threats confronting the North-West and other parts of Africa.

The state’s Special Adviser on Security Matters, Ahmed Usman, made the appeal while representing Governor Ahmed Aliyu at the Africa International Defence Exhibition 2026 held in Lagos.

Usman said the growing threats posed by terrorism, banditry and transnational organised crime required closer collaboration among governments, security agencies, defence manufacturers and technology providers.

He emphasised the need for African countries to strengthen their security capabilities through investments in intelligence gathering, surveillance systems, modern communication equipment and local defence manufacturing.

According to him, the continent must increasingly rely on indigenous research, local production capacity and technological innovation to develop sustainable solutions to its security challenges rather than depend entirely on foreign sources for essential defence equipment and technology.

The security adviser also identified intelligence sharing, capacity building and cooperation among security agencies as critical elements of effective security operations.

He maintained that addressing insecurity required more than the deployment of military personnel and equipment, stressing that modern technology and strategic partnerships were equally important in responding to emerging threats.

Usman further stated that the Sokoto State Government recognised the importance of adopting modern security solutions and strengthening partnerships to address the challenges facing the state and the wider North-West region.