Nigeria, US launch security governance initiative

Nigeria and United States yesterday launched Security Governance Initiative (SGI) Joint Country Action Plan (JCAP) to address insecurity in the country.

Interior Minister, Lt Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd) inaugurated the steering committee for the implementation of the SGI’s action plan at a ceremony held in Abuja. Speaking at the inauguration, the minister said the JCAP, developed by both Nigeria and US, was focused on strengthening Nigerian security agencies.

Dambazau said, “The SGI, which is a partnership between Nigeria and US, is designed to improve security governance and capacity, ranging from policing in the Northeast and Niger Delta to emergency response protocols and defence acquisition.

“The JCAP, which was adopted and signed in May 2017, outlines the roadmap for a successful bilateral engagement under the SGI.

“The JCAP outlines three thematic focus areas that are centred on strengthening the effectiveness of the security institutions and the criminal justice system.

“The challenges to security governance, desired end state, intermediate objectives and recommendations are all encompassed in these three focal areas,” he said.

The minister listed the focus areas to include, Ministry of Interior Nationwide Emergency Response Planning and Coordination; Ministry of Defence Material Needs Identification, Procurement and Acquisition Procedures and Processes; and Civilian Security Planning for the Northeast and the Niger Delta.

The US Ambassador to Nigeria, Stuart Symington reiterated his country’s determination to address security problems in Nigeria.

He commended efforts by the Nigerian government and called for more from all stakeholders in ensuring implementation of the agreement under the SGI.