A former spokesperson for the Nigerian Army, Sani Usman has said that securing lives and property of citizens across nation goes beyond the use of weapons and patrols.

Usman, a retired Brigadier General also said that the North West region’s security architecture needs total overhauling.

Speaking at a two-day retreat in Kaduna for Katsina State officials and security experts, Usman said there is need to tackle the persistent security challenges in the region squarely.

The remarks made by the former Army spokesperson was contained in a statement released by Ibrahim Mohammed, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor of Katsina State.

According to Usman, unconventional strategies should be adopted to address the security threats bedeviling states like Katsina, Zamfara and the likes.

He said, “Addressing these issues requires a combination of security operations, peace building initiatives, and conflict management strategies.”

He also commended the Katsina State governor, Dikko Radda over some recent initiatives which include the establishment of a community watch corps and a Ministry of Home Security.

“We must go beyond policing. Economic programs that provide alternatives for young people, collaboration with traditional and religious leaders, and improved intelligence gathering are essential.

“Security isn’t just about weapons and patrols; it’s about governance, hope, and creating opportunities. Lasting solutions require collective action,” Usman noted.