Sokoto State Commissioner of Police Hayatu Alhassan Shaffa
From Bashir Rabe Mani in Sokoto
The new Commissioner of Police in Sokoto State, Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, has assumed duty on Monday with a commitment to promote community policing and intelligence-driven operations.
Shaffa, who addressed officers and men of the command, said he would push everyone to achieve results and collaborate with other security agencies to address the well-documented security challenges in the state.
“I assume duty with a clear and sober understanding of the security realities facing Sokoto State.
“The challenges are significant and well-documented. Our state has been severely affected by terrorism, banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and cattle rustling.
“These criminal elements have perpetrated heinous acts, resulting in the tragic loss of innocent lives, widespread displacement, and a climate of fear that hinders our collective pursuit of peace and prosperity.”
According to the CP, the consequences extend beyond immediate physical danger to include psychological trauma on individuals and families, and economic strain on households.
“We see the burden on government resources, where funds that should drive development and poverty alleviation are instead channeled into security responses.
“We see the toll on our youth, women, and children, the most vulnerable among us who deserve safety and opportunity.
“I must also recognize the immense sacrifices of our security personnel. Officers of this Command and our sister agencies risk their lives daily in the line of duty. Many have paid the ultimate price. Their courage and commitment will not be forgotten, nor will it be in vain.
“It is against this backdrop that I outline my vision for the Sokoto State Police Command. Our approach will rest on three interconnected pillars:”
To restore order, Shaffa said he will attack the security challenges through intelligence-led and technology-driven operations, and community partnership and trust-building through the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) at state and local government levels.
“By listening to community concerns, aggregating patterns of abnormal behavior, and fostering mutual trust, we will build a policing model that is both responsive and preventive.
“Effective internal security demands seamless collaboration. I will prioritize robust synergy with the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and all other security agencies. We will operate as one force with a common purpose.
“Furthermore, we will strengthen partnerships with state government institutions, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society because security is a collective responsibility that no single agency can claim monopoly over.”
He also pledged to support peace sustainability initiatives to prevent communal clashes, political violence, and other forms of conflict before they escalate.
“Special attention will be given to the security of women, children, and other vulnerable populations through targeted patrols, school safety programs, and community engagement.
“We will conduct regular assessments of our strategies, assets, and personnel performance to ensure continuous improvement and accountability.
“We recognize that security is not solely the work of law enforcement. We will therefore embark on robust public sensitization campaigns in partnership with the National Orientation Agency (NOA), broadcast media, and community platforms.
“These initiatives will promote crime prevention awareness, civic responsibility, and leadership development among our youth. We will also organize community engagement activities such as road marches and friendly sports competitions to build positive relationships and channel the energy of our young people constructively.”
He therefore charged all officers and men of the Command to be resolute, disciplined, and professional, and ensure top notch operational planning.
“Let us remember that poor planning produces poor performance. Let us commit to meticulous planning, unwavering loyalty, and the highest standards of service.
“Your welfare remains a priority. I will work to ensure that you have the necessary support, resources, and leadership to carry out your duties effectively and safely.”
