The Kwara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has intensified security preparations across the state ahead of the upcoming Sallah celebration, following a strategic security review meeting held in Ilorin, the state capital.

In a statement issued on Monday by the command's spokesperson, Ayoola Shola, and made available to The PUNCH, the Corps said the meeting formed part of efforts to strengthen internal security coordination and operational readiness across Kwara State.

The meeting brought together Heads of Departments and Units, Area Commanders, and tactical unit leaders to assess the security situation and emerging threats across the state.

According to the statement, the session reviewed current security challenges, including kidnapping, banditry, vandalism, and other criminal activities, with a view to adopting more proactive and intelligence-led responses.

In his address, the State Commandant of the NSCDC, Abbas Ndah Mohammed, stressed the need for urgent reassessment of existing strategies to effectively address evolving security threats.

He said, "The essence of this meeting is to critically evaluate our current security posture and ensure we are fully prepared to respond to emerging threats, especially as we approach the Sallah period, which often comes with heightened security challenges."

He directed Area Commanders and Divisional Officers to intensify intelligence gathering and strengthen information-sharing networks to enhance early detection and disruption of criminal activities.

"We must strengthen our intelligence networks and improve information sharing at all levels so that we can detect, deter, and disrupt any potential security threat before it escalates," he stated.

Abbas further charged tactical and operational units to maintain round-the-clock vigilance, particularly in vulnerable locations across the state.

"Our personnel must remain alert at all times. There should be no gap in coverage, especially around critical and vulnerable areas. We must ensure 24-hour security presence across all strategic locations," he said.

He also emphasised the importance of inter-agency collaboration, noting that effective crime prevention requires coordinated efforts among security outfits.

"We cannot operate in silos. Inter-agency cooperation is key to our success. We must continue to work closely with sister security agencies to nip criminal activities in the bud and ensure the safety of lives and property in Kwara State," he added.

The command assured residents of heightened surveillance and proactive deployment of personnel to ensure a peaceful and secure Sallah celebration across the state.