The Kano State Government has resolved to establish additional military bases and deploy forest guards to local government areas identified as prone to security challenges
The decision was reached at a meeting between Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the 44 local government council chairmen in Kano, according to the commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, Muhammed Tajo Othman while briefing journalists
The meeting was attended by the Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the Accountant-General of the state
According to the resolutions of the meeting, the additional security measures followed discussions between Governor Yusuf and the Minister of Defence
The government said the new security architecture would complement the existing arrangement involving the Nigeria Police Force and Neighbourhood Watch, with the aim of improving rapid response to threats and protecting lives and property
The government also resolved to establish Computer-Based Test (CBT) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) centres in each of the 44 local government areas
It said contracts for the centres had already been awarded and work would commence immediately
In the health sector, the government resolved to provide one rural ambulance to each ward across the state to improve access to emergency and basic healthcare services
It further approved the employment of two drivers for each ambulance, with preference to be given to qualified persons from the respective wards
The meeting also approved the establishment of electric vehicle charging points at strategic locations within the state capital as a pilot project, which would be expanded where necessary
On street lighting, the government said installation of solar-powered streetlights in each of the 44 local government areas would commence immediately
The initiative, according to the resolutions, is aimed at improving public lighting, enhancing security and promoting sustainable development
On human capital development, the government resolved to appoint 50 special reporters for each local government area, as well as 35 advisers for local government chairmen
It said 15 of the adviser positions would be allocated to members of the former APC structure as part of efforts to strengthen grassroots engagement, communication and administration
The meeting also resolved that the state’s new and improved monthly women empowerment programme should continue immediately
The programme is aimed at promoting economic empowerment, self-reliance and improved livelihoods for women across the state
The government and the 44 local government councils reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening security, infrastructure, human capital development and grassroots governance
They directed relevant ministries, departments, agencies, local government councils and other stakeholders to ensure the immediate and effective implementation of the resolutions