Sokoto Gov’t welcomes new federal homeland security portfolio

From Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto

The Office of the Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Sokoto State on Security says it welcomes the appointment of Major General Adeyinka Famadewa (Rtd) as Special Adviser on Homeland Security by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
This was contained in a statement signed by Col. Ahmed Usman (Rtd), Special Adviser to the Governor of Sokoto State on Security Matters.
It said, “ We describe it as a timely and strategic initiative aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s evolving security architecture.
“This development reflects the Federal Government’s recognition that Nigeria’s current security realities require more specialized coordination mechanisms capable of addressing emerging domestic threats, enhancing civilian protection, and improving inter-agency collaboration across all levels of government.
“For decades, the nation’s security management framework has largely operated through centralized coordination under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
“ While this structure has played a significant role in preserving national security coordination, the increasing complexity of modern threats—such as banditry, kidnapping, cybercrime, transnational terrorism, and communal conflicts—demands additional layers of operational specialization and rapid-response coordination.”
According to the statement, the creation of the Homeland Security portfolio should not be misconstrued as an attempt to undermine or render the Office of the National Security Adviser irrelevant.
It added, “On the contrary, the new office is expected to function as a complementary structure that enhances domestic security coordination while supporting the broader national security objectives being driven by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
“ONSA remains the central coordinating institution for Nigeria’s overall security framework, and any effective homeland security structure must work in synergy with existing institutions, not in competition with them.
“Functional specialization is a global best practice designed to improve efficiency, intelligence sharing, and operational response, not institutional rivalry.”
The statement further ssud the Sokoto State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, has consistently supported initiatives aimed at improving security coordination and safeguarding lives and property across the state.
“The administration continues to work closely with the military, police, DSS, NSCDC, local vigilante formations, and community stakeholders to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve rapid response capabilities, and restore confidence among citizens.
“The state government has also invested significantly in logistical support for security agencies, including the provision of operational vehicles, communication equipment, motorcycles, and welfare support to personnel operating in vulnerable communities across the state.