In a renewed effort to strengthen grassroots security and promote community safety, the Neighbourhood Enlightenment and Safety Organisation (NESO), Kwara State Command, held a landmark event at St. Clare’s Girls Grammar School, Offa, over the weekend.
The ceremony featured the official issuance of appointment letters and the decoration of newly appointed officers.
The event drew dignitaries and security stakeholders across the state, including officers from the Nigeria Police Force, members of sister agencies, and representatives of St. Clare’s Girls Grammar School.
Delivering a keynote address, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Abioye O. Mathew stressed the critical importance of community participation in security.
“Security is not the job of one person alone. It takes a community to ensure safety and peace,” he said.
He described NESO as a pivotal body in grassroots intelligence gathering, referring to it as a “Secret Agency” for its discreet and deeply embedded presence within communities.
The Principal of St. Clare’s Girls Grammar School, Mrs. Grace Adekempe Kolawole, praised NESO’s tireless efforts despite operating as a non-governmental organisation.
She emphasized the need for collaboration between NESO and conventional security agencies, stating that synergy is essential to achieving lasting peace and security.
In his address, the Kwara State Commandant of NESO, CC Arojo Olufunsho, reflected on the organisation’s decade-long journey of service without government funding.
He highlighted NESO’s operational model, which depends on contributions from committed members and volunteers.
He also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to recognise NESO as a viable anti-insurgency and counter-terrorism force, capable of supporting Nigeria’s national security objectives.
The event not only recognised the dedication of NESO personnel but also reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to promoting safety and vigilance at the grassroots level.
With growing stakeholder support and increased collaboration, NESO is poised to further contribute meaningfully to community-based security in Kwara State and beyond.
