Jigawa State’s Peaceful Environment Earns High Praise from Visiting AFCSC Senior Course 48 Team
In a resounding endorsement of its governance and security strategies, Jigawa State has received high commendation from the visiting Senior Course 48 of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji, Kaduna. The delegation lauded the state’s peaceful atmosphere, renowned hospitality, and sustained efforts toward strengthening security and community engagement—a model that offers valuable lessons for other regions in Nigeria and beyond.
Why Jigawa Was Selected: A Benchmark for Peace and Stability
The commendation came during a courtesy visit to Governor Umar Namadi at Government House, Dutse, as part of the college’s nationwide study tour. Leading the delegation, the Commandant of AFCSC, Air Vice Marshal Alfred Olugbenga Shogbanmu, explained that Jigawa State was deliberately chosen for this exercise because of its reputation as one of the most peaceful and stable states in Nigeria. “Anytime Jigawa State is mentioned, the general response is always that Jigawa is peaceful, stable, and welcoming,” the commandant stated.
This selection underscores a critical point: peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of deliberate, sustained policies that foster trust between government, security agencies, and citizens. Jigawa’s example demonstrates how proactive community engagement and inter-agency cooperation can create an environment conducive to development and investment.
The Nigerian Study Tour: Bridging Theory and Practice
The visit was part of the college’s annual Nigerian Study Tour, designed to expose participants—senior military officers, directing staff, and international delegates from Ghana, the Republic of Benin, and Chad—to practical governance and security realities across selected states. This year’s tour is anchored on the theme “Promoting Community Engagement for Enhanced National Security and Prosperity.”
Air Vice Marshal Shogbanmu noted that the college considers it part of its responsibility to contribute practical ideas toward addressing contemporary national challenges through research and policy engagement. “What we do from time to time is identify major national issues and task our students to study them critically,” he said. This approach transforms academic theory into actionable insights, equipping future military leaders with a nuanced understanding of civil-military relations and grassroots security dynamics.
Practical Example: How Community Engagement Works in Jigawa
For instance, Jigawa has implemented a multi-tiered security architecture that includes regular town hall meetings, joint patrols between military and local vigilante groups, and a state-wide early warning system. These measures have significantly reduced farmer-herder clashes and petty crime, creating a stable environment that attracts agricultural investors and humanitarian organizations. The AFCSC team will spend the next few days studying these mechanisms in detail, engaging with stakeholders from local government councils, traditional institutions, and security agencies.
Governor Namadi’s Response: A Commitment to Sustained Peace
Responding, Governor Umar Namadi expressed deep appreciation for the college’s confidence in Jigawa State. “Your presence here today demonstrates the confidence you have in Jigawa State, and I want to assure you that the government and people of the state truly appreciate this gesture,” the governor said.
Namadi assured the delegation that all ministries, departments, and agencies of government have been directed to provide participants with all necessary support and information required for their study and research activities. He reiterated that Jigawa remains one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria, attributing this achievement to three key pillars:
- The grace of God – Acknowledging the spiritual and cultural values that underpin community cohesion.
- Cooperation among security agencies – Highlighting the seamless collaboration between the 26 Armoured Brigade, police, civil defense, and local intelligence networks.
- Sustained collaboration between government and citizens – Emphasizing transparent governance, regular dialogue, and inclusive development programs.
“We shall continue to pray for peace, and we shall continue to do everything necessary to sustain it,” Namadi affirmed.
Broader Implications for National Security
The AFCSC study tour is more than a ceremonial visit; it is a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future security architecture. By exposing senior military officers to successful state-level models like Jigawa, the college fosters a generation of leaders who understand that security is not solely a military responsibility but a shared societal endeavor. The inclusion of international participants from Ghana, Benin, and Chad also facilitates cross-border learning, which is vital for addressing transnational threats such as terrorism, banditry, and organized crime.
Key Takeaways for Policymakers and Practitioners
- Community engagement is non-negotiable: Jigawa’s success shows that regular dialogue with traditional rulers, youth groups, and religious leaders builds trust and reduces tensions.
- Inter-agency coordination matters: The seamless cooperation between military, police, and civil defense in Jigawa offers a replicable template for other states.
- Peace attracts development: A stable environment encourages investment, tourism, and humanitarian aid, creating a virtuous cycle of prosperity and security.
Conclusion: A Model Worth Emulating
The AFCSC team’s visit to Jigawa State serves as a powerful testament to the dividends of peace and good governance. As the participants return to their respective units and countries, they carry with them not just data and reports, but a living example of how community-centered security strategies can transform a state. For Jigawa, the recognition is well-deserved—and a challenge to sustain the momentum.
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