The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has called for greater collaboration among citizens, communities, government institutions and security agencies in tackling the nation’s security challenges, insisting that security remains a collective responsibility that requires the commitment of all stakeholders.
Air Marshal Aneke made the assertion while addressing participants at the Delta State Security Summit held in Asaba with the theme, “Security: A Collective Responsibility.” The CAS was represented at the event by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet.
Speaking at the summit, the Air Chief observed that contemporary security threats are increasingly emerging from within communities, making the active involvement of citizens crucial to maintaining peace and stability.
He noted that suspicious movements, unusual gatherings, rising criminal activities and other early warning signs are often first detected by members of the public, stressing that timely information sharing and sustained cooperation between communities and security agencies remain vital to preventing insecurity.
According to him, no security architecture can succeed in isolation, adding that collective vigilance and a shared commitment to safeguarding communities are essential for addressing evolving security threats across the country.
Air Marshal Aneke further stated that sustainable peace, economic growth and social development can only thrive in a secure environment. He commended the Governor of Delta State, Honourable Sheriff Oborevwori, for his developmental initiatives and for convening the summit as a strategic platform to deepen collaboration and strengthen efforts aimed at enhancing peace and security in the state.
Earlier, Governor Oborevwori underscored the importance of partnerships in addressing security concerns, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains the foundation upon which sustainable development is built.
The governor maintained that lasting peace and security can only be achieved through close cooperation among government, security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and the citizenry.
The summit attracted a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including security chiefs, traditional rulers, local government officials, civil society organisations, youth and women groups, as well as members of the business community.
Participants collectively reaffirmed their commitment to fostering a safer and more secure Delta State through unity, cooperation and a shared sense of responsibility, while strengthening the partnership between citizens and security agencies in the collective pursuit of peace and development.
