By Mustapha Salisu
A renowned Security Analyst and Public Commentator, Ambassador Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, has issued a comprehensive security advisory to Nigerian families, urging household heads to take proactive measures in safeguarding their homes amid rising insecurity across communities.
In his advisory titled “Key Security Guidelines for Household Heads and Families,” Amb. Adamu emphasized that family safety is a sacred responsibility and should not be left to prayers alone but complemented with vigilance, knowledge, discipline, and planning.
He outlined several measures aimed at improving domestic and community security, beginning with strict door and home access control. He advised families to always keep their houses locked after morning prayers, during the day, and at night. No door, he cautioned, should be opened without verifying who the visitor is, where they are from, and the purpose of their visit.
“Even if the visitor claims to be an official of the electricity company, water board, or health agency, always confirm their identity before allowing access,” he warned.
Amb. Adamu also stressed the importance of movement and visitor protocols, advising household heads to inform their families whenever they leave home and to keep them updated about their expected return. Likewise, family members should be clearly told not to entertain any unverified visitor in the absence of the head of the house.
On communication security, he encouraged families to maintain constant contact, ensure at least one phone is always loaded with airtime, and respond promptly to calls from family or neighbors. He further urged households to display emergency contact numbers of trusted neighbors, community leaders, local vigilante groups, and the nearest police station for quick access during emergencies.
The advisory also covered internal household discipline, warning against revealing sensitive information such as the absence of the head of the house or when family members are alone. He reminded parents to train their children not to engage strangers or open doors indiscriminately.
Amb. Adamu advised that homes should be well-lit and fenced to discourage intruders, stressing that criminals fear visibility. Where possible, he said, families should install CCTV cameras for additional surveillance.
He called for stronger community cooperation, noting that united neighborhoods with active watch groups are harder for criminals to target.
In his message, the analyst urged Nigerians not to rely solely on prayers for protection but to combine faith with preparedness, quoting the Prophet Muhammad (SAW): “Tie your camel first, then place your trust in Allah.”
While citing recent tragic incidents involving the killing of families in some parts of the country, Amb. Adamu described them as painful reminders of the need for proactive security consciousness at home.
He concluded that security is a collective responsibility that begins at home and extends to the community, praying for Allah’s protection over all families.
“May Allah grant mercy to the departed and protect us all from harm,” he said.
For further information, Ambassador Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu can be reached via 07034471678.