BEYOND THE PARADE: Why Kano’s Neighbourhood Watch Must Become a Lasting Security Institution.

 BEYOND THE PARADE: Why Kano’s Neighbourhood Watch Must Become a Lasting Security Institution.

By Tijjani Sarki

Beyond the colours, salutes, and symbolism of the passing-out parade lies a deeper truth, security is not a ceremony, it is a responsibility. When Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf commissioned the Kano State Neighbourhood Watch Corps, he did more than unveil uniforms and patrol vehicles, he acknowledged the silent fear in vulnerable communities, the anxiety of families, and the growing demand for safety at the grassroots.


 This was a bold, humane, and timely decision, worthy of commendation.

At a time when banditry and criminal infiltration threaten border communities and strain conventional security agencies, no responsible leader would fold his arms and wait for tragedy to multiply. Governor Yusuf’s action reflects leadership that listens, anticipates danger, and chooses prevention over condolences. By deploying 2,000 operatives across all 44 local government areas, supported with operational vehicles and motorcycles, the administration has sent a powerful signal, the lives of Kano people matter.

What makes this intervention particularly promising is its community-based nature. Security rooted in local knowledge, trust, and intelligence has proven globally to be more effective than distant, overstretched forces. When properly guided, neighbourhood watch structures can close gaps, gather early warnings, and restore confidence between citizens and the state. Kano has chosen the right path. The challenge now is ensuring that this path does not lead to disappointment.

Experience has taught us that good ideas fail when institutions are weak.

 Therefore, appreciation must be matched with vigilance and advocacy. Continuous training must be institutionalised, not treated as a one-time event. Security threats evolve, and operatives must evolve with them through regular refresher courses in intelligence gathering, ethics, human rights, and community engagement.


Equally critical is welfare. Motivation cannot be sustained by uniforms alone. Fair remuneration, insurance, healthcare support, and clear conditions of service are essential safeguards against corruption, abuse, and public resentment. A neglected security operative is a danger not only to himself, but to society.

This brings us to a painful but necessary reflection. I was among those who publicly advocated for the establishment of KAROTA, inspired by the effectiveness and professionalism of LAMATA in Lagos State. Sadly, KAROTA today stands as a lesson in how vision can be betrayed by poor recruitment, weak oversight, and the absence of discipline. What should have been a reform-driven institution gradually became a dumping ground, losing public trust and, in many cases, embarrassing the state through the conduct of some of its operatives. Watching this decline often evokes not pride, but deep concern and shame.


Kano must not repeat this mistake. The Neighbourhood Watch must be protected from becoming another cautionary tale. Recruitment must be merit-based, transparent, and uncompromising. Standards must never be sacrificed for convenience, patronage, or politics. Discipline must be the cardinal principle.


Even though my efforts to access the law establishing the Kano Neighbourhood Watch Corps have been unsuccessful for over seven months, it is my sincere hope that the corps is firmly grounded in law and governed by a competent oversight structure. A governing board or council comprising retired military officers, ex-police officers, and seasoned security professionals is essential to instill professionalism, enforce accountability, and provide strategic direction.


Beyond government funding, Kano should think boldly about shared ownership. I strongly advocate for the launch of a one-off Community Security Fund, transparently managed and publicly audited. This fund would allow wealthy individuals, business leaders, traditional institutions, and ordinary citizens to contribute financially or in kind to the take-off and sustainability of the corps. When the community invests in its own security, it also earns the moral authority to demand discipline, accountability, and respect. Security then becomes a collective duty, not a distant government project.


History will remember this moment, not by the parade that dazzled the eye, but by the peace or pain that follows it. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has taken a courageous step at a critical hour, and for that he deserves applause. But applause must now give way to vigilance. This initiative must be shielded from decay, politicisation, and indiscipline.


If done right, the Kano State Neighbourhood Watch Corps will not only secure lives,it will restore faith in governance itself and become a model for Nigeria. If done wrong, it will deepen cynicism and confirm public fears.

This is beyond politics. This is about legacy. Kano is watching. History is waiting.


Tijjani Sarki

Good Governance Advocate and Public Policy Analyst

Executive Director 

Responsive citizens Initiative

responsivecitizensinitiative@gmail.com

25th December, 2025

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