By Mustapha Salisu
A Security Affairs Analyst, Ambassador Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, has urged Nigerian communities to strengthen local vigilance, youth engagement, and parental responsibility as part of a holistic strategy to prevent crime and insecurity across the country.
In a comprehensive advisory titled “Hard-Hitting Security Recommendations for Communities,” Amb. Adamu emphasized that true security begins with vigilance, not weaponry, warning that most attacks are preceded by signs often ignored by residents.
“If you see something, say something,” he advised, stressing that suspicious movements, secretive gatherings, and sudden behavioral changes among youths should be promptly and responsibly reported.
He cautioned against labeling unemployed youths as threats, noting that idleness—not young people themselves—is a major risk factor. According to him, “A youth who is meaningfully engaged rarely has time for crime,” underscoring the need to link security with vocational training, community service, and small business support.
Amb. Adamu also called on parents to take greater responsibility in monitoring their children’s activities, friends, and social media engagements. “Asking questions is not intrusion; it is care and protection,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of women in safeguarding communities, he noted that women often notice details men overlook. He recommended their active participation in community security committees, intelligence sharing, and monitoring of new residents.
While advocating hospitality, Adamu warned communities to be cautious in accommodating strangers. “A visitor is not an enemy—but negligence is dangerous,” he said, urging proper verification of newcomers’ backgrounds and occupations.
The analyst further condemned the spread of unverified information, describing rumours as “weapons in the hands of criminals,” and advised that communities must verify before sharing any security-related news.
On religion, he maintained that faith should unite rather than divide. “Any religion used to justify violence has been deliberately misrepresented,” he stated, calling on clerics to preach patience, respect for law, and peace.
Amb. Adamu stressed that security is a continuous responsibility, not limited to night patrols. He linked daytime moral guidance, youth engagement, and family discipline to safer communities.
He concluded with a powerful message: “Silence is complicity. Anyone who knows the truth and remains silent empowers crime. Timely reporting saves lives—it is not betrayal.”
Amb. Adamu added that true security combines faith and proactive measures, saying, “Prayer plus action equals real security.”
“A community that works together, cares for its children, speaks the truth on time, and respects the law will never become a safe haven for criminals or terrorists,” he affirmed.