From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace and security by collaborating with security agencies and stakeholders in marking the 2025 International Peace Day.
The university hosted a symposium themed “Community Policing in a Polarized World as a Panacea for Sustainable Peace and Security in Nigeria: The Role of Stakeholders,” which drew participants from key security outfits, academia, and the community.
Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Lateef Oladimeji, said the nation’s security challenges demand collective action, stressing that no single institution can tackle insecurity in isolation. “The issue of insecurity requires an all-inclusive approach,” he noted.
Dr. A. A. Adekola, Acting Director of the Centre for Peace and Security Studies at Al-Hikmah, called on communities to work closely with security agencies to build trust and strengthen grassroots policing.
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“Communities should partner with security agencies in community policing to achieve sustainable peace and security,” he said.
On his part, the Kwara State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Umar Muhammed, underscored the relevance of citizens’ participation in crime prevention.
“The role of stakeholders, particularly members of society, in crime reduction cannot be overemphasised,” he said while commending the university for its proactive initiative.
Also speaking, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Idachaba Adamu, who represented the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, noted that conventional policing methods are inadequate in addressing today’s threats.
He pointed to terrorism, insurgency, and violent crimes as challenges worsened by societal divisions.
“Deep ethnic, religious, political, and socio-economic divisions have fueled mistrust between citizens and law enforcement, making people reluctant to share information with the police,” he observed.
The gathering stressed the importance of inclusive strategies and partnerships among government agencies, academic institutions, and local communities in the fight for sustainable peace.
The event was attended by representatives of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Customs Service, staff and students of Al-Hikmah University, and other distinguished guests.
