Former Military Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar has appealed to Nigerians to increase their cooperation with security agencies as the nation continues to grapple with rising cases of kidnapping.
He made the call during a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Saturday where he stressed the importance of public involvement in boosting national security efforts.
Abubakar urged citizens across the country to provide timely and accurate information that could help security operatives track down individuals involved in abductions and other criminal activities. He explained that effective intelligence sharing between the public and security officers remained one of the most reliable tools for preventing attacks and ensuring swift arrests.
The retired general encouraged Nigerians to report suspicious movements or persons of questionable character to the nearest security formation for prompt intervention. His appeal follows growing concerns over mass kidnappings, including attacks on schools and communities in different regions.
According to him, the insecurity situation has become widespread, affecting various segments of society. He described the current security challenge as one that requires vigilance, coordination and commitment from all stakeholders to successfully address.
Abubakar stressed that strengthening cooperation among security agencies, government structures and the general public would greatly improve efforts aimed at restoring peace. “We must all work together to end abductions in our schools and on our highways and to restore peace, progress and political stability,” he said.
He also urged religious leaders from both major faiths in the country to intensify prayers, noting that spiritual support was just as important in addressing Nigeria’s socio economic and political challenges.
