Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized the need for a collective approach to tackling security challenges in Nigeria, particularly at the community level where criminals often hide. He made this observation during a visit to the Bauchi emir’s palace yesterday, where he paid homage to the emir and commissioned various projects executed by the state government. Additionally, he launched a sound intervention mission under his foundation in Bauchi.

Obasanjo stated, “The security situation has worsened, and we cannot remain idle as things continue to deteriorate. Effective security is the responsibility of everyone, especially at the community level, because the bad elements live among us. Even if we say some came from outside, without local collaborators, they would be like fish out of water.”

He commended Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed for his active efforts in addressing security issues but noted that as long as criminals exist within communities, security remains a challenge. He acknowledged the role of national security agencies such as the military and police, but reiterated that public involvement is key to achieving lasting security.

Obasanjo further stressed the importance of security in promoting development, saying, “Without security, our development is at risk.”

On the intervention mission of the Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation, the former president highlighted the transformative potential of the program, which aims to restore hearing to affected individuals. In response, the emir of Bauchi, Dr. Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, expressed his gratitude for Obasanjo’s visit and the flagging-off of the sound intervention program.