BY MUSLIM LAWAL:
Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed has said that the expertise of the Department of State Services (DSS) in intelligence gathering is indispensable especially as threats to security can emerge from any corner and at any time.
Speaking as the as the Special Guest of Honour at the opening ceremony of the North-East Zonal Conference of State Directors of Security hosted by the Bauchi Command of the DSS, the Governor acknowledged the critical role the Department of State Services plays in maintaining peace and stability in the country.
Represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau, Governor Bala Mohammed said considering the numerous challenges of insecurity currently facing the country, there is need for governments at all levels to leverage on the capabilities of the DSS and other security agencies in order to overcome the obstacles.
He however emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of insecurity which include poverty, unemployment and social discontent and advocated for a robust network of intelligence sharing to address the security challenges through implementation of initiatives that promote economic growth and social cohesion.
He said the conference reflects the collective commitment of Directors of the DSS towards ensuring the safety and security of our communities in an increasingly complex and challenging environment, and could not have come at a better time than now considering the rising security challenges across the country.
Governor Bala Mohammed then assured that as the Chief Security Officer of the State, his administration will continue to work hand in hand with the Department of State Services and other Security agencies to maintain law and order in the State through providing the agencies with the conducive working environment and logistic support for the effective and efficient operation.
He therefore reaffirmed the commitment of his Government towards safeguarding the lives and property of the people.
In a welcome address, the Bauchi State Director of Security, Nafiu Bello said the Zonal Conference is a forum to rub minds and exchange views and ideas with a view to coming up with strategies to identify and check threat to national security.
Nafiu Bello extended the gratitude and appreciation of the DSS to Governor Bala Mohammed for his administration’s partnership with the service and promised to live up to expectations.
