By Isiaka Mustapha,Editor-in-Chief, People’s Security Monitor

The Commander-General of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), Otunba James Aduwak Udoma, has sought the support and cooperation of the 15th Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Abiodun Ige Adams, to strengthen grassroots security and promote collaboration among security agencies in the South-West.Udoma made the appeal on Friday, 30 October 2026, during a courtesy visit to the traditional security leader at his office in Odua House, Ikeja, Lagos State.

The visit was aimed at building strategic relationships, strengthening inter-agency cooperation and securing the support of traditional institutions for community-based security initiatives and the protection of lives and property.The VGN Commander-General was accompanied by a high-powered delegation from the organisation’s National Headquarters in Abuja. Members of the delegation included the Deputy Commandant-General (Administration), Alhaji Mohammed Idris Azare; DCG Finance, Alhaji Jubril Ali Sokoto; Assistant Commandant-General (Provost), Mathew Omojuni; ACG Intelligence, Seyi Araromi; and Lagos State Commandant, Tajudeen Opeyemi, alongside other senior officers.

Speaking during the meeting, Udoma emphasised the need for stronger partnerships among paramilitary organisations and other relevant security agencies to improve intelligence gathering, information sharing and coordinated responses to security threats.He particularly solicited the support of the Aare Onakakanfo in promoting effective collaboration among security stakeholders across the South-West, noting that collective efforts remained essential to addressing security challenges at the grassroots.The VGN chief also sought the prayers, royal blessings and guidance of the Yoruba traditional security leader as he continues his efforts to reposition the organisation, strengthen its institutional structures and improve its operational effectiveness nationwide.

Responding, Iba Gani Adams expressed delight at receiving Udoma and his delegation, commending the VGN Commander-General for his leadership qualities, wisdom and commitment to the development of the organisation.The Aare Onakakanfo offered prayers and royal blessings for Udoma, wishing him good health, long life and the wisdom required to discharge the responsibilities of his office successfully.He also urged the VGN chief to remain focused, uphold integrity and demonstrate exemplary leadership, stressing the importance of building strong institutional structures that would guarantee the organisation’s sustainability and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.The meeting provided an opportunity for both leaders to exchange views on the importance of grassroots participation, traditional institutions and strategic security partnerships in addressing the nation’s security challenges.