The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has urged security agencies across the G-7 states to intensify joint operations and intelligence sharing to curb cross-border crimes threatening Abuja and its neighboring states.
The G-7 Security Forum, established in 2007, brings together security chiefs from the FCT, Niger, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kaduna, Benue, and Plateau states to share intelligence, review security trends, and adopt joint strategies.
Represented by the FCT Head of Service, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, Wike gave the charge at the opening of the G-7 States Technical Committee meeting held Thursday at the Nigeria Police Resource Centre, Jabi.
He noted that the complexity of emerging threats ranging from kidnappings and banditry to human and drug trafficking required synergy, collaboration, and innovative strategies.
“The nature of threats has become increasingly dynamic, and criminal elements are exploiting technology and porous boundaries. Only through coordinated operations can we overcome them”, Wike said.
The latest meeting was convened following reports of resurging criminal activities across the fringes of the FCT.
Wike commended security operatives for their sacrifices and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to providing resources and platforms to strengthen regional security cooperation.
Speaking on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, AIG Usaini Gumel said the G-7 collaboration had proven its relevance over the years.
“Alone, each state may not achieve the desired results, but when seven states come together to fight a common enemy crime and criminality the outcome is always greater,” he said, urging members to develop lasting strategies that align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
FCT Commissioner of Police and Chairman of the G-7 Technical Committee, CP Ajao Adewale, also called for deeper inter-agency collaboration and sustained intelligence sharing.
Citing recent successes, he revealed how the arrest of a Nasarawa-based kidnap syndicate led to the capture of its leader, Muhammad Tahir, who had coordinated operations across Nasarawa and Plateau states.
Over ₦7.4 million ransom recovered from the group, he said, underscored the need for cross-border cooperation.