By Paul Okojie

Nigeria’s security crisis has become one of the defining challenges of governance in the Fourth Republic. From terrorism in the North-East and banditry in the North-West to kidnapping in the North-Central, separatist violence in the South-East, piracy in the South-South and cult-related crimes in parts of the South-West, insecurity continues to threaten national unity, economic growth and citizens’ confidence in government.

While much attention is often directed at the Federal Government, the Armed Forces and other national security agencies, one important level of government has remained largely underutilised in the country’s security architecture the local government system.

Although the Constitution does not place the primary responsibility for security on local governments, they are the closest tier of government to the people. They understand the peculiar challenges within their communities, know the difficult terrains, identify vulnerable areas and maintain direct interaction with traditional rulers, community leaders and residents. These advantages make local governments indispensable partners in preventing crime and supporting security agencies.

Against this backdrop, the recent presentation of twelve motorcycles and a Toyota Sienna operational van by the Executive Chairman of Egor Local Government Council, Hon. Osaro Osa Eribo, to the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), with additional support for the Nigerian Police Force, UgbowoDivision, deserves national recognition.

This was not merely a ceremonial handover of vehicles. It was a practical investment in public safety and an acknowledgement that security requires more than policy statements. It demands logistics, mobility, intelligence and sustained collaboration.

For years, security agencies across Nigeria have struggled with inadequate operational equipment. Officers are frequently expected to respond rapidly to distress calls without sufficient vehicles, motorcycles, communication gadgets or fuel. Criminals, on the other hand, often exploit this weakness, operating swiftly and escaping before security personnel arrive.

By providing motorcycles capable of accessing narrow streets and difficult terrains, alongside an operational vehicle for coordinated patrols, Egor Council has addressed one of the most persistent operational gaps confronting grassroots policing.

This initiative also reflects an understanding that effective security begins with prevention rather than reaction.

Speaking during the presentation, Hon. Osaro Osa Eribo noted that increasing security challenges across the country require local governments to complement the efforts of the Edo State Government in protecting lives and property. His position is consistent with the security philosophy of Governor Monday Okpebholo, whose administration has prioritised strengthening Edo State’s security architecture through improved collaboration with formal and community-based security institutions.

What is particularly commendable is that Egor has not witnessed major heinous crimes in recent times. Rather than waiting for criminals to strike before acting, the council has chosen to strengthen preventive capacity. This is the hallmark of responsible governance.

Far too often, public officials only respond after lives have been lost and communities have been devastated. Preventive governance may not always generate dramatic headlines, but it saves lives, protects investments and reduces the social and economic costs associated with crime.

The economic implications of security cannot be overstated.

No investor willingly commits resources to an environment characterised by fear and uncertainty. Businesses require stable operating conditions. Farmers need access to their farmlands without fear of kidnapping. Traders must transport goods safely. Parents want assurance that their children can attend school without danger.

Security is therefore not merely a law enforcement issue; it is an economic development strategy.

Every naira invested in preventing crime contributes to increased productivity, employment opportunities and sustainable development. Safe communities attract investments, encourage entrepreneurship and improve the quality of life for residents.

Unfortunately, many local government councils across Nigeria continue to treat security as an exclusive responsibility of the Federal Government. Budget allocations are often directed almost entirely towards routine administration, while little attention is paid to strengthening community security initiatives.

This mindset must change.

Within their constitutional limits, local governments can make meaningful contributions by providing patrol vehicles, motorcycles, surveillance equipment, communication gadgets, solar-powered street lighting in vulnerable locations, support for neighbourhood watch groups, emergency response systems and community intelligence networks.

Councils can also establish Local Security Advisory Committees involving traditional rulers, youth organisations, women leaders, market associations, religious institutions and representatives of recognised security agencies. Such platforms improve information sharing, identify emerging threats and strengthen public confidence.

The importance of intelligence gathering cannot be overemphasised. Security agencies perform far more effectively when communities trust them enough to provide timely information. Local governments are uniquely positioned to build this trust because of their proximity to the people.

Another lesson from Egor is the value of inter-agency cooperation. Rather than concentrating support on a single institution, the council recognised the complementary roles of the Edo State Security Corps and the Nigeria Police Force. Modern security challenges require coordinated responses rather than isolated efforts.

As criminal networks become increasingly sophisticated, governments must adopt equally coordinated strategies involving intelligence sharing, joint patrols, technological support and community participation.

The intervention by Egor Council also sends a strong message about political leadership.

Leadership is measured not only by campaign promises but by the willingness to make practical decisions that directly improve the lives of citizens. Providing operational logistics to security agencies may not be as politically attractive as commissioning large infrastructure projects, yet its impact on everyday life can be even more profound.

A secure environment allows every other sector to flourish.Healthcare services improve when medical personnel can work without fear. Schools record better attendance when parents feel confident about their children’s safety. Markets thrive when traders operate freely. Tourism expands when visitors feel protected.

Insecurity undermines every development objective. For this reason, local government chairmen across Nigeria should view Egor’s initiative not as an isolated event but as a model worthy of replication.

The specific interventions may differ according to local needs and available resources, but the principle remains constant: every council has a responsibility to support the protection of lives and property.

Nigeria’s security challenges are too complex to be addressed by a single level of government. They require partnership, innovation and sustained commitment from federal, state and local authorities.

The era of waiting for Abuja to solve every security problem must come to an end. Grassroots leadership must become an active participant in safeguarding communities.

Egor Local Government has demonstrated what is possible when political will meets practical action. It has shown that local governments can become strategic partners in strengthening Nigeria’s internal security architecture.

The challenge now lies with the chairmen of the remaining 773 local government councils. Their constituents deserve more than expressions of concern after tragedies occur. They deserve proactive leadership that invests in prevention, strengthens security institutions and protects the lives and livelihoods of ordinary Nigerians.

If this example is replicated across the country, Nigeria would be taking a significant step towards building safer communities, restoring public confidence and creating an environment where development can truly thrive.

Security is everyone’s responsibility, but leadership must lead the way. Egor has done so. Others should follow.