The Deputy Senate Leader and Senator representing Kwara South Senatorial District, Architect Lola Ashiru, has commenced a capacity-building programme for local security commandants across the district.
It is aimed at strengthening community security and enhancing grassroots intelligence.
The training, which began on Monday at Avalon Hotel, Offa, was organized in collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and drew participants from various local security outfits within the senatorial district.
Speaking on behalf of the Senator, Mr. Olayemi Olaboye, popularly known as Itafa, who serves as his Special Adviser on Administration, reaffirmed Senator Ashiru’s commitment to grassroots security and sustainable community development.
“Our goal is to equip our local security commandants with the necessary tools and knowledge to protect lives and properties in their communities. This programme also aligns with our broader mission to build a safer and more prosperous Kwara South,” Olaboye stated.
The event featured a keynote address by retired Director of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS), Mr. Alabi Funsho Owolabi, who retired from the Zonal Office in Minna, Niger State.
Owolabi commended the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention in the face of growing security concerns in rural communities.
He urged participants to take the training seriously, saying, “Your role at the grassroots is crucial. The safety of our people largely rests on your dedication and vigilance.”
Also addressing the participants was Engr. Femi Muhammed, a consultant from Abitat Konzultants Nigeria Limited, who encouraged beneficiaries to maximize the opportunity presented to them.
“This isn’t just a training; it’s a call to responsibility. You are being empowered to be better custodians of community peace,” he said.
Dignitaries present at the event include Alhaja Mujidat Amototo, Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara South; Alhaji Omotosho Yunus, SLA to President of the Senate in Offa LG; Elder Olaitan Oyin Zubair, Coordinator of the Kwara South Joint Community Security Watch; and Mr. Lawal Babatunde, SMEDAN’s representative from Ilorin.
Among what was distributed were helmets, uniforms, knee guard and other incentives to the participants.
The local commandants will in turn train their subordinates and give them kits distributed.
The initiative is widely seen as a strategic step in fostering peace and sustainable development across Kwara South.
