In July 2022, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and neighboring states experienced fear when over 800 inmates escaped from Kuje prison.
Stakeholders expressed shock at the security crisis, emphasizing the need for synergy among security agencies.
In December of the same year, the FCT Police Command apprehended three suspected kidnappers linked to the abduction of residents in Kasanki village.
The suspects, residents of Niger State, were arrested under the special anti-crime operation, Operation G-7.
In May 2023, Nigerian security forces successfully rescued 58 people kidnapped by gunmen in Kogi state near Abuja.
The G-7 Operations, aimed at fighting violent crimes, rescuing victims, and apprehending offenders, covers FCT and six neighboring states.
While the G-7 has achieved significant results, concerns remain about criminals exploiting porous interstate borders.
Cross-border crimes include human trafficking, kidnappings, drug trafficking, armed robbery, money laundering, and illicit arms trafficking.
The G-7 Technical Committee
Experts warn that criminals now commit crimes outside their usual boundaries or seek refuge in neighboring states.
This surge in cross-border crime poses significant implications for national and international security.
The security integrity of the nation’s capital, FCT, is threatened by these criminal activities.
To address this issue, the FCT Administration convened the 9th G-7 Technical Committee Meeting to tackle the surge in criminal elements crossing FCT and neighboring states.
The committee consists of security chiefs, commissioners of police, state directors of the Department of State Security Services, and commandants of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps.
The meeting aimed to review operational strategies to address security challenges and enhance the safety and prosperity of residents.
The FCT Administration has consistently prioritized security measures, providing operational vehicles and security gadgets to combat crime effectively.
With rapidly evolving threats and challenges, dynamic approaches like synergy and joint operations are crucial to combat illicit activities.
The G-7 initiative strengthens collective efforts in fighting security challenges, particularly cross-border crimes.
By adopting a unified approach, member states can pool resources and fight criminals simultaneously.
Community participation is also vital for the success of security operations, requiring involvement of community structures and community policing.
Collaboration, coordination, and intelligence sharing through the G-7 platform will form the foundation of success.
Despite differences between states, sharing ideas and experiences among neighboring states is essential to address common challenges.
To bridge the resource gap, state governments should collaborate with the federal government to fund and equip security agencies adequately.
Ensuring safety and prosperity requires the combined efforts of security agencies, stakeholders, and community participation.