The West African Action Network against Small Arms (WAANSA), a non-governmental organisation, has partnered with the Federal University of Lafia (FULafia) to enhance security in communities surrounding the institution.

Martin Igwe, Regional First Vice President of WAANSA, disclosed this during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Gandu community on Saturday in Lafia.

Mr Igwe said that the collaboration became necessary following rising security concerns in the area, which posed threats to the lives and property of students, staff, and residents.

He explained that the initiative would focus on intelligence sharing, community sensitisation, installation of solar-powered streetlights in dark spots, and training of vigilante groups in modern security practices.

According to him, the cooperation of the district head, youths, and vigilante members has strengthened the intervention and encouraged efforts to address pockets of insecurity in the community.

Mr Igwe added that WAANSA had donated 30 whistles to vigilante members following complaints of shortages and promised to facilitate the installation of solar streetlights in identified black spots.

He commended the university management for providing stipends to vigilante members to boost their morale and enhance their commitment to supporting security agencies with timely intelligence.

Also speaking, Madela Samuel, representing the Director of Environmental Safety at FULafia, lauded the organisation for complementing government efforts in safeguarding lives and property.

Mr Samuel said the university was providing monthly stipends to about 200 vigilante members drawn from 11 host communities.

He added that plans were underway to review the stipends upward to further motivate the security volunteers.

“Our students and staff reside in these communities, and we cannot secure them in isolation. Partnerships with organisations and individuals are key to building a safe environment for learning and peaceful coexistence,” he said.

In their remarks, Abdullahi Mohammed, district head, and Abdulsalam Abdullahi, youth leader of the community, appreciated WAANSA and the university for addressing security challenges in the area.

They, however, appealed to the institution to provide employment opportunities for qualified indigenes as part of its corporate social responsibility to enhance community development. 

(NAN)