The newly appointed Commissioner of Police in Sokoto State, Hayyatu Shafa, has pledged to confront terrorism, banditry and kidnapping head-on, declaring that restoring law and order will be the cornerstone of his leadership.
Speaking during his assumption of duty at the command headquarters, Shafa expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and the Police Service Commission for the trust placed in him.
“The first duty of government is to maintain law and order so that the life, property and religious beliefs of citizens are fully protected,” he said.
The police chief acknowledged the severity of security challenges facing the state, noting that terrorism, banditry and kidnapping have resulted in loss of lives, displacement and widespread fear among residents.
He outlined a three-pronged strategy to tackle insecurity, including intelligence-led and technology-driven policing, strengthened community engagement, and improved collaboration with other security agencies.
“We will intensify intelligence gathering and leverage modern tools to anticipate and disrupt criminal activities,” Shafa stated.
He added that the command would work closely with communities through the Police Community Relations Committee to enhance trust and information sharing.
On inter-agency cooperation, the commissioner said the command would strengthen synergy with the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to ensure a coordinated response to threats.
Shafa also listed key operational priorities, including intensified patrols, targeted anti-crime operations, conflict prevention measures and protection for vulnerable groups.
He assured residents of accountability within the command, promising regular performance reviews and improved service delivery.
While paying tribute to fallen security personnel, he urged officers to remain disciplined and committed.
“To my officers and men, we are at a critical juncture. The challenges are formidable, but so is our resolve,” he said.
The commissioner further announced plans for public sensitisation campaigns in partnership with the National Orientation Agency and the media, alongside youth-focused initiatives to strengthen police-community relations.
Sokoto State has faced persistent insecurity in recent years, with armed groups carrying out attacks on rural communities, disrupting livelihoods and heightening concerns across the North-West region.
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