The Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) has ordered an escalation of surveillance operations across communities along the Kaduna–Plateau border, following recent waves of attacks in the area.
The directive was issued by the Commander-General of the VGN, Umar Bakori, during a one-day security sensitisation workshop held in Kaduna. The meeting brought together VGN commanders from all 23 local government areas of the state.
Bakori directed operatives to heighten alertness and adopt proactive security measures, particularly in vulnerable border communities.
He stressed the need to strengthen early warning systems and ensure rapid response to emerging threats.
Bakori said that “the measures are aimed at preventing further loss of lives and property, as well as improving coordination among local security structures.”
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“Our operatives must remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement to security agencies without delay,” he stated.
The VGN is a critical partner in supporting both state and federal governments in tackling insecurity, which is crippling education, agriculture, and socio-economic growth.
Highlighting the group’s grassroots reach, the Commander-General appealed for enhanced logistical support from the government and private citizens.
He noted that providing vehicles and operational tools would boost the VGN’s capacity to secure communities.
“Vigilante members are on the frontline of community security. With adequate support, we can drastically reduce criminal activities and restore peace,” Bakori said.
Additionally, VGN Commander from Southern Kaduna, who spoke on condition of anonymity, reiterated the group’s dedication to supporting official efforts against banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism, revealed that many members serve voluntarily without remuneration.
“Our mandate is to apprehend suspects and hand them over to the police. With better equipment and support, we are confident that insecurity can be curbed,” the commander said.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for deploying security forces to Plateau State, expressing hope that the move would help stabilise the region.
The VGN’s mobilisation underscores growing concerns over cross-border violence and the increasing reliance on community-based security mechanisms to complement conventional law enforcement in security setback threatening the regions.