NOA seeks security sector reform to enhance professionalism

From Ahmad Mohammed Bauchi

The National Orientation Agency has stressed the need for reforms in the security sector to enhance professionalism and gain the confidence of the citizens.
The Director Political, Civic, Ethics and Values of the Agency National Headquarters Abuja, Mrs Ngozi Ekeoba made the assertion at a One- day sensitization forum on the improvement of relationship
between the security agencies and citizens organized by Konrad Adenaur-Stiftung, a German Foundation held at Command Guest House Bauchi.
Ekeoba who spoke on enhancing cordial relationship between security agencies and citizens, expressed confidence that the measure would bridge the gap between the citizens and the security sector for
cordial civil-military relationship.
The NOA National Director identified poor ethics in handling officials matters and lack of professionalism and commitment as some of the factors affecting the image of Security personnel in the country, and emphasized the need for security agencies to create avenues of interaction with the citizens to foster understanding among them.
She stressed the need for cordial relationship between the security agencies and the citizens cannot be over emphasized, hence the need for collective efforts towards the development of the nation.
Mrs Ekeoba therefore called for attitudinal change and patriotism on the part of both security agencies and the citizens in line with the present administration’s Change Begins with Me Campaign.
Speaking at the occasion, the Resident Representative of Konrad Adenaur-Stiftung Nigeria, Dr. Vladimir Kreck said the Foundation was partnering with National Orientation Agency, National Assembly
Committee on Army to create platforms for harmonious dialogue for peace and prosperity for all.
Dr. Vladimir Kreck said the forum is one of the many laudable initiatives to promote Stability, Democracy, the Rule of Law and the cooperation between Security Agencies and the Citizens.
In a message at the occasion, the State Governor Muhammad Abdullahi Abubakar said the theme of the occasion was in line with his administration commitment to ensure mutual understanding among Security Agencies and the people of the State.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Security Matters, Retired Brigadier General Ladan Yusuf, the Governor said the State Government has engaged the services of traditional institutions and the media for
peace and security in the society.
Bauchi State Director, National Orientation Agency, Alhaji Nuru Yusuf Kobi pledged his agency’s determination to assist towards ensuring cordial relationship between security agencies and the citizens.