Introduction
Security has diverse definitions and interpretations across various fields such as public administration, public finance, the military, paramilitary services, politics, psychology, and sociology. In simple terms, security refers to protection from—or resilience against—potential harm or any form of unwanted coercion. The beneficiaries of security, often referred to as “referents,” may include individuals and social groups, physical assets and institutions, ecosystems, or any entity or system susceptible to undesirable change.
Kano State, a pivotal region in Nigeria, has often found itself at the crossroads of political, economic, and social challenges. Among the most pressing issues that arose during the early 21st century was the emergence of Boko Haram; expansion of ethno-religious conflict; kidnapping; farmers and Fulani conflict; youth unrest (DABA); political oppositions; and other terrorist organizations that significantly disrupted the peace and security of Northeastern Nigeria and extended its malevolent reach into neighbouring states, including Kano. Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who served as Governor of Kano State from 2011 to 2015, was at the forefront of the state’s response during the initial attacks by Boko Haram.
This piece examines Kwankwaso’s multifaceted approach to tackling the unique security challenges posed by this extremist group, analysing his strategies, policies, and the broader implications of his leadership during this turbulent period. Kwankwaso is fortunate that his achievements are being documented while he is still alive.
The piece intends to help younger generations recognise those who contributed to their current enjoyments, similar to how we remember Nigeria’s early political leaders, particularly Sir. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, First Prime Minister of independent Nigeria (1960 – 1966); Sir. Nnamdi Azikiwe, First Black Governor-General of Nigeria from (1960 to 1966); Sir. Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, the Premier of the Northern Region of Nigeria; Sir Obafemi Jeremiah Oyeniyi Awolowo Premier Western Region (1960 -1966), etc.
Kwankwaso’s leadership approach demonstrates the value of inclusivity and collaboration in governance, particularly in post-conflict settings. His focus on local participation may serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.
Kwankwaso is a fearless, knowledgeable, and dedicated administrator who excels in crisis management. I had the privilege of working closely with him during the 2011 campaign as Chairman in charge of security committee. After his victory, I was appointed Director General of Special Services at Government House and later served as Special Adviser on Civil and Community Security, allowing me to witness his exceptional leadership firsthand. Throughout the campaign’s challenges.
He was a mentor, demonstrating unwavering commitment and resilience. As Director General of Special Services, I observed his tireless work ethic and deep dedication to governance. During the Boko Haram crisis, he convened security meetings almost daily and actively oversaw the implementation of critical decisions. These qualities are precisely what Nigeria needs to address its security challenges.
Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s candidacy for the presidency of Nigeria in 2023, was strengthened by his proven capacity to address complex security challenges, including insurgency, kidnapping, and other criminal activities that threaten social and economic stability. His strategic approach to crisis management not only neutralized immediate threats but also promoted lasting peace through the establishment of a comprehensive security network. This initiative effectively unified diverse hunter groups (distinguished by black and white attire), religious organizations, and local Yandaba factions.
By engaging Islamic scholars, hunters, and youth, he tackled root causes such as drug abuse and social unrest, demonstrating a commitment to holistic and sustainable security solutions. Kwankwaso’s expertise in conflict resolution and grassroots engagement positions him as a visionary leader capable of restoring stability and ensuring a safer, more secure Nigeria for all.
Understanding the context
The rise of Boko Haram marked a transformative period in Nigeria’s security landscape. Founded in 2002, the group’s initial protests against Western education morphed into a violent insurgency, with attacks spreading rapidly across the northern regions, particularly after their notorious uprising in 2009. In Kano, the group executed its first major attack on January 20, 2012, leading to numerous casualties and chaos across the city. Kwankwaso’s government faced a daunting task, as insecurity began to instil fear among citizens and disrupt economic activities in the state.
Crisis response
Kwankwaso’s immediate response to the January 2012 terror attacks was a multi-dimensional approach that combined both civil and organised security efforts. He effectively integrated the state’s traditional vigilante groups with formal security agencies while also implementing tactical security measures and community engagement strategies. Recognizing that military force alone would not ensure lasting stability, he prioritized a comprehensive approach that involved collaboration with security agencies, party marshals, hunters’ groups, and community leaders. Some of the key strategies he employed included:
Strengthening security forces
Kwankwaso advocated for the enhancement of state security apparatus by requesting for reinforcement of well-trained Mobil Police Units; increasing funding, provided them with free feeding for all the units engaged, and widened the scope of intelligence work, utilised civilian special services units in the 44 local governments, resources for the police and other law enforcement agencies. He sought to improve training programs, procurement of modern equipment, and overall morale of the personnel tasked with maintaining peace.
Establishment of the Kano State Security Trust Fund
To address the funding gap within the security sector, Kwankwaso initiated the Kano State Security Trust Fund in 2012. This fund aimed to provide financial resources for the acquisition of necessary equipment and tools to combat insurgency, thereby empowering security forces to effectively respond to threats.
Community policing initiatives
Recognising the critical role of local intelligence in tackling security challenges, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso initiated community policing strategies designed to strengthen collaboration between security agencies and local communities. He prioritised the training of local vigilante groups and encouraged residents to report suspicious activities, thereby promoting a culture of shared responsibility for public safety. As part of this effort, Kwankwaso established Town Hall Committees at the chapter, ward, local government, and major town levels to monitor and report unusual movements, criminal activities, and drug-related issues—particularly the prevalence of youth involvement in drug abuse and the identification of drug trafficking sources within their communities.
Economic and educational initiatives
Kwankwaso’s approach to security extended beyond immediate responses to violence; he recognised the underlying socio-economic factors contributing to the rise of extremism. Poverty, unemployment, and lack of education were critical issues fuelling discontent among the youth. To address these challenges, he implemented the following strategies:
-Investment in education:
Kwankwaso prioritised educational reforms by expanding access to education, creating special programs to sponsor youth for university studies both locally and abroad, and improving the quality of schools in Kano. He also introduced capacity-building courses for teachers and adult education programs for individuals who had not completed primary or secondary education. He firmly believed that empowering youth through education would reduce their vulnerability to extremist ideologies and provide them with viable alternatives to violence. His strategy proved effective, as there were no recorded cases of individuals from Kano joining Boko Haram during his tenure.
-Skill acquisition and empowerment programmes:
Alongside educational initiatives, Kwankwaso championed various skill acquisition programs to equip young people with vocational skills essential for employment and entrepreneurship. He established multiple institutions offering short-term training courses for youth and women of different age groups. These programs aimed to reduce unemployment, promote self-reliance, and counteract the recruitment strategies of terrorist organizations
-Creation of Kano State Corporate Security Initiative:
Senator Kwankwaso is widely recognised for his visionary leadership, particularly his foresight and determination to implement projects that benefit the less privileged. In response to the prevailing security challenges in the state, his administration established the Kano Corporate Security Training Institute in May 2011—one of the 23 specialised institutes set up during his tenure. The initiative was timely and played a vital role in mitigating security threats across the state.
The primary objective of establishing the Security Training Institute was to complement the efforts of existing security agencies—such as the Nigeria Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), NDLEA, FRSC, and others—in safeguarding the lives and property of citizens. Security and safety have always been fundamental pillars of human society, from the earliest periods of civilization to the present era of e-governance. Another key goal of the initiative was to create employment opportunities for the large population of unemployed youth in Kano State—one of the central priorities of Governor Kwankwaso’s administration.
This effort was acknowledged in the Editor’s Note on Page 2 of Kano State Today, published on 4th July 2014. It emphasized that the government had taken a leading role in ensuring the safety and security of its citizens, which is a fundamental responsibility. The article further highlighted that in a state with the largest population in Nigeria, a significant percentage of the youth remained unemployed, making them vulnerable to social vices and criminal activities that undermine personal and societal development. The establishment of the institute, therefore, created a vital platform to engage these young people productively, taking them off the streets and enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.
Yahaya Umar (2014, p.3.) claims that one of the duties of any constituted authority, of any kind and inclination, all over the world is the protection of lives and properties of its citizens against internal and external aggression. He further highlighted that if the lives and property of the people are secured and protected from perceived and inherent dangers and forces of destruction whether human, natural or otherwise, then the citizens will feel secured and live-in peace thereby paving the way for the progress and development of the society.
If, on the other hand, the government fails to do so, then it has woefully failed to fulfil major part of its social contract between it and the people that have surrendered some of their rights and privileges to it.
The establishment of the Kano State Corporate Security Training Institute in Zakirai Town, Gabasawa Local Government Area, by the Kwankwaso administration provided a valuable platform for training and producing professional security personnel. Graduates of the institute now serve in various capacities across government ministries, boarding secondary schools, tertiary institutions, hospitals, private residences, commercial centres, and industries.
In addition, the administration encouraged self-employment by empowering graduates of the security institute to establish their own private security firms—on the condition that they register with the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS). This opportunity was granted free of charge, with no requirement to refund the cost of their training.
Kabiru Hamisu Kura (2014, p.5) noted that the primary reasons behind the establishment of the institute were to create employment opportunities for the teeming youth of the state—both male and female—and to modernise and transform the operations of security guards in the digital age. According to him, the initiative has proven successful, with numerous achievements recorded.
These include the absorption of the first, second, and third batches of graduates into the state civil service as well as the private sector, thereby elevating the status and prestige of the security guard profession compared to the past.
Provision of good roads, social infrastructure, and support for women as strategies for crime prevention
During his first and second tenures, Senator Kwankwaso implemented numerous initiatives aimed at preventing crime through the provision of critical infrastructure and social support. His administration prioritized the construction of good roads and the development of both rural and urban infrastructure, including electrification projects, boreholes to provide clean drinking water in rural areas, and pipe-borne water in urban centres. Health facilities were also a focus, with the construction of hospitals, rural clinics, and the deployment of mobile clinics to serve rural markets.
Additionally, the administration supported qualified youth through the Lafiya Jari programme, providing them with startup capital to establish local chemist shops. These measures were strategically designed to discourage mass migration from rural to urban areas, recognising that overcrowding in cities often contributes to insecurity and increased crime rates. The government also provided targeted support to women, recognizing their central role in fostering community stability and development.
Combating drug abuse and establishing a rehabilitation centre to reduce crime
Despite limited interaction between rural communities and law enforcement agencies, crime levels in those areas remained low. However, in urban centres, a significant number of youths were found to be involved in criminal activities, largely fuelled by drug abuse. Recognising the threat this posed to public safety and youth development, Senator Kwankwaso took decisive action by declaring a war on drugs.
He established a state-of-the-art rehabilitation centre in Kiru and equipped the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Kano State with operational vehicles and essential equipment to enhance their effectiveness. His administration also launched a widespread public enlightenment campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and encouraged parents to actively support the government’s efforts.
These interventions yielded positive results, as many rehabilitated youths were later gainfully employed in roles such as traffic management and corporate security services, contributing meaningfully to society and staying away from crime.
Preservation of law and order in the state
Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso demonstrated a strong commitment to the preservation of law and order in society through multi-dimensional approaches, particularly by establishing effective mechanisms for crime detection and prevention. One notable initiative was the creation of Special Services Units across the 44 local government areas, which focused on community-based intelligence gathering by training youth groups within their respective communities.
His administration also sponsored the training of numerous constabularies to support the Nigeria Police in securing major markets across the state. Many of these trained constabularies were deployed to divisional police units, where they played an active role in crime prevention and enhancing public safety.
Economic and educational initiatives to crime prevention
Kwankwaso’s approach to security extended beyond immediate responses to violence; he recognized the underlying socio-economic factors that contributed to the rise of extremism. Poverty, unemployment, and lack of education were critical issues that fuelled discontent among the youth. He introduced the following tactics:
Investment in education
Kwankwaso prioritised educational reforms, expanding access to education, created special programs of sponsoring youth to universities within and abroad, and improving the quality of schools in Kano. He also created improvement courses for teachers, adult education for those that have not had primary and secondary education. Kwankwaso believed that empowering the youth through education would reduce the appeal of extremist ideologies and provide them with viable alternatives to violence. His thinking was proved right, because no single person joined Boko Haram.
Skill acquisition and empowerment programmes
In conjunction with educational initiatives, Kwankwaso championed various skill acquisition programs to equip young people with vocational skills essential for employment and entrepreneurship. He created many institutions that provided short term course for youth and women of various ages. These programs aimed to reduce unemployment and provide avenues for self-reliance, countering the recruitment strategies of terrorist groups.
Introduction of government-sponsored marriages for divorcees
The rate of divorce among women was alarmingly high due to widespread unemployment among men, who were expected to provide for their families. This situation severely impacted the social fabric of the state, leading many divorced women into drug abuse, which became a growing societal concern.
To address this challenge, a government initiative was introduced by Kwankwaso to fully sponsor the marriages of 1,001 couples—benefiting a total of 2,002 individuals at its inception. This pioneering program was the first of its kind in Nigeria, Africa, and the world.
The sponsorship package included:
a. Payment of dowries;
b. Provision of essential furniture (beds, mattresses, pillows, and bedsheets);
c. Food supplies to help the couple establish their household;
d. A set of traditional attire for both bride and groom; and,
e. Financial empowerment for the husband to start a small business and sustain the family.
This initiative proved highly successful and was later adopted by other states in Nigeria. The program played a significant role in reducing crime and drugs abuse
rates in Kano State by promoting social stability and economic empowerment.
Using sporting activities to engage the youth
Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso actively championed youth engagement through sports by distributing 120 goalposts to each of the 44 Local Governments in the State, complete sets of sportswear (jerseys and white shorts), football boots, and 120 footballs to each of the 44 Local Government Areas in Kano State. He further strengthened this initiative by organising inter-local government football competitions and offering incentives to participating teams and their supporters.
These initiatives were strategically designed to curb youth involvement in crime by promoting positive development, nurturing essential life skills, and enhancing social cohesion. Through sports, young people gain a sense of belonging, improve their physical and mental well-being, and learn core values such as teamwork, discipline, and conflict resolution. These positive experiences act as effective deterrents to risky behaviour and criminal activity.
The outcomes of using sports as a tool for crime prevention have been encouraging. With deliberate planning and execution, sports can be a powerful instrument in reducing youth crime. Many participants have experienced tangible physical, emotional, and social benefits. When integrated into the broader community framework, sports can play a transformative role in guiding young people away from criminal paths and toward constructive, purpose-driven lives.
Motivated the establishment of community-based crime prevention committees in all wards of the 44 LGs
One of the key strategies employed by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso in preventing and controlling crime was the establishment of community-based crime prevention and control committees across all wards in the 44 local government areas of Kano State. These committees were mobilised to monitor their communities, gather intelligence, and report any suspicious activities to the relevant security agencies.
Functioning similarly to town hall forums, the committees fostered active civic engagement, where members closely observed their surroundings and proactively alerted authorities to potential threats. This initiative achieved two major outcomes: it made security a shared community responsibility, and it enabled early detection and prompt intervention before crimes occurred.
Political engagement and advocacy
Kwankwaso employed political engagement as a means to garner support for his security policies. He actively collaborated with federal authorities, advocating for increased military presence and intervention in affected regions. His position as a prominent political figure allowed him to raise awareness of the gravity of the threat posed by Boko Haram on national and international platforms.
Kwankwaso also forged alliances with religious and community leaders, seeking their support in mobilising grassroots resistance against extremist ideologies. By promoting interfaith dialogue and tolerance, he worked to unify diverse segments of the society against the divisive tactics of Boko Haram.
Provision of CCTV cameras as a proactive measure
In response to the persistent threat posed by Boko Haram, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso implemented the installation of CCTV cameras in densely populated and high-risk areas across Kano State as a proactive security measure.
These cameras served as critical monitoring tools for detecting suspicious activities and triggering immediate response protocols when necessary. The visible presence of CCTV systems also acted as a psychological deterrent, discouraging potential offenders by increasing the perceived risk of apprehension. By placing the cameras strategically in areas prone to criminal activities, Kwankwaso aimed to prevent crimes before they occurred, thereby ensuring a safer environment for both residents and visitors.
Leadership style and role in peacebuilding
Kwankwaso’s leadership approach demonstrates the value of inclusivity and collaboration in governance, particularly in post-conflict settings. His focus on local participation may serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.
1. Promotion of women and Youth: Kwankwaso emphasised the importance of women and youth in peacebuilding, creating opportunities for their involvement in governance and community initiatives.
2. Security initiatives: He facilitated various programs aimed at establishing lasting security in Kano, which contributed to a more stable environment.
3. Policy framework for NGOs: His development of a policy framework for Non-Governmental Organizations focused on conflict resolution played a significant role in maintaining peace.
4. Detribalised approach: Kwankwaso’s refusal to allow tribal or religious differences to hinder his leadership helped to bridge gaps among various groups in Kano.
5. Inclusive governance: He appointed individuals from major tribes into his administration, ensuring diverse representation and leveraging their insights to guide decision-making.
Conclusion
Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s response to the security crisis in Kano State, before and during the early attacks by Boko Haram reflects a holistic understanding of leadership during complex emergencies.
By combining security measures with socio-economic initiatives and community engagement, he sought to create an environment resilient to the advancing threats of extremism. While challenges remain, his legacy in tackling security issues during this tumultuous period highlights the essential role of governance, community collaboration, and socioeconomic development in fostering a safe and secure society.
The lessons drawn from Kwankwaso’s leadership continue to resonate in ongoing discussions about effective governance and security in the face of insurgency, laying the groundwork for future efforts to combat terrorism in Nigeria.
One key aspect of Senator Kwankwaso’s approach to crisis prevention, response, and management is his exceptional capacity for leadership in times of crisis—marked by a multidimensional strategy. During periods of uncertainty, effective leadership becomes crucial in steering communities through turbulent times. As a leader, Kwankwaso served as a pillar of strength and stability—someone people could rely on when faced with adversity.
Jimmy H. (2024), a renowned scholar in crisis leadership, asserts that in times of chaos and unpredictability, strong leadership acts as a guiding beacon through the storm.
Kwankwaso exemplified this during the Boko Haram attack on Kano, demonstrating calm assurance and keeping the public confident that the difficult period would pass. His ability to navigate the crisis with composure and strategic foresight is a defining trait of truly exceptional leaders.
The importance of leadership during crisis situations cannot be overstated—it serves as the driving force that propels communities forward in the face of adversity. In such times, strong leadership inspires confidence among team members—be it the Military, Police, State Security Service, or other paramilitary units—reassuring them that there is a steady and capable hand guiding them toward their shared mission of ensuring public safety and security.
Effective leadership sets the tone for how challenges are approached, instilling a sense of purpose and direction when it is needed most. Senator Kwankwaso exemplified this through his consistent convening of security meetings to assess the situation and provide the necessary support and guidance.
During periods of persistent bomb blasts, Senator Kwankwaso prioritised clear communication and fostered transparency and trust within the security teams, ensuring that everyone remained informed and aligned with the overall mission. His resilience and adaptability were not only evident but also deeply inspiring, motivating all security agencies to remain gallant—continuing to wear their uniforms with pride despite the dangers—and to confront challenges with unwavering determination.
He kept morale high by ensuring that operational units received quality food and clean drinking water, while their daily allowances were paid promptly to sustain their motivation and commitment. All the Divisional Police Offices that were affected by the boom blasts were quickly rebuilt with even more facilities provided.
I fully agree with Jimmy H. (2024), who asserts that in times of crisis, effective leaders possess key characteristics that set them apart. One of the most crucial traits demonstrated by Senator Kwankwaso is his ability to remain calm under pressure, providing a sense of stability and reassurance to those around him.
He was decisive, making tough decisions swiftly and confidently even in the face of uncertainty. At the same time, he showed empathy toward the emotions and concerns of others while maintaining a strong focus on problem-solving. His adaptability was another essential quality—he adjusted strategies quickly as the crisis evolved.
Kwankwaso proved to be a highly effective crisis manager because he led with transparency and integrity, building trust among members of the security council and key stakeholders. He led by example, demonstrating resilience and determination in overcoming challenges. His collaborative approach was particularly commendable—he regularly engaged traditional rulers, religious leaders (both Christian and Muslim), and other critical stakeholders in meetings to provide updates and seek diverse perspectives.
.Yakasai, PhD, is former Acting Chief Executive Officer, Federal Road Safety Corps, a former Director General, Special Services, Government House, Kano, as well as former Special Adviser on Civil and Community Security, during the second tenure of former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and, currently the Special Adviser on Policy and Social Development of Governor Abba Kabiru Yusuf.
