The Katsina State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) on Monday launched a security awareness campaign across border communities in the state.
The State Director of the agency, Alhaji Muntari Lawal-Tsagem, disclosed this during the launch of the campaign in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State.
He said the campaign was aimed at educating residents on cross-border crimes and mobilising them to complement government efforts to curb insecurity.
According to him, the campaign will cover border local government areas including Jibia, Kaita, Mashi, Mai’adua, Zango and Baure.
Lawal-Tsagem noted that criminals often take advantage of festive periods to infiltrate the country through informal entry points in border areas.
“Such criminals include peddlers of illicit drugs, smugglers of illegal weapons and hoodlums who contribute significantly to the nation’s security challenges,” he said.
He appealed to residents of border communities to support government efforts by promptly reporting suspicious activities or movements to security agencies for swift response.
The director also called on the residents to be patriotic and demonstrate respect and loyalty to the country.
He urged parents and guardians to guide their children against involvement in illicit drugs and behaviours that could lure them into criminal groups.
Lawal-Tsagem further appealed to community and religious leaders to promote peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among residents.
He also encouraged citizens to remain law-abiding and to discharge their civic responsibilities diligently.
The NOA director commended Governor Dikko Radda for his sustained efforts to address security challenges in the state.