The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has urged security agencies across the G-7 states to strengthen joint operations and intelligence sharing to curb cross-border crimes threatening Abuja and its neighbouring states.

Wike, represented by the FCT Head of Service, Mrs Grace Adayilo, made the call on Thursday at the opening of the G-7 States Technical Committee Meeting in Abuja.

He said the growing complexity of security threats, including kidnappings, banditry, and human and drug trafficking, demanded greater collaboration and synergy among security agencies.

“The nature of threats is increasingly dynamic, and criminal elements are exploiting technology and porous boundaries. Only coordinated operations can defeat them,” Wike said.

The G-7 Security Forum, established in 2007, brings together security chiefs from the FCT, Niger, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kaduna, Benue, and Plateau states. The forum focuses on intelligence sharing, reviewing security trends, and adopting joint strategies.

Wike noted that the meeting was convened in response to a resurgence of criminal activities along the FCT’s borders. He commended security operatives for their sacrifices and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to regional security collaboration.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by AIG Usaini Gumel, also hailed the G-7 initiative, stressing that collective action was key. “When seven states fight a common enemy together, the outcome is far greater,” he said, urging the committee to align its efforts with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.