By Kingsley Modeyin
The security status of a neighbourhood is a significant determinant of where to live, especially for high-profile and dignified personalities.
Taking a cross-section of present-day Nigeria, the clear picture of what is visible includes kidnapping, incessant killings, robberies, and other related criminal activities, which are rising at a geometric rate. This is clear evidence that the security situation in each neighbourhood and the entire country has been severely eroded. This dire situation is exacerbated by the slow response in dealing with security threats when they arise.
This article will define neighbourhood insecurity and explore strategic ways to tackle it.
Neighbourhood insecurity occurs when there are actual or perceived local risks to the safety of a group or an individual that reach intolerable levels. This situation can be prevented through the establishment and implementation of the following security measures in each area:
i. Institution of Neighbourhood Watch:
A neighbourhood watch programme involves creating networks of neighbours keen on participating in security monitoring. Knowing who resides in your neighbourhood can help eliminate multiple crimes that have the potential to disrupt the area.
ii. Holding Consistent Safety Meetings:
Regular safety meetings in each neighbourhood foster unity among community groups, providing a platform for those involved in community safety to interact, share ideas, and brainstorm strategic ways to enhance safety measures.
iii. Taking Responsibility for Securing Personal Property:
Providing individual orientation on developing a safety culture involves taking responsibility for looking after homes and personal assets.
iv. Employing Smart Locks and New Camera Technologies:
Upgrading door locks to smart locks enables remote locking, while new camera technologies allow homeowners to see who is at their front porch and decide whether to permit entry when the doorbell rings.
V. Educating People on Social Media Safety:
The prevalent culture, particularly among youths, involves using social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase achievements and recent events. These posts provide useful information to potential criminals targeting individuals or planning house break-ins. Offering essential guidance on social media safety to residents in each neighbourhood can change mindsets, help reduce insecurity risks, and consequently promote safety.
Vi. Organising Neighbourhood Tours for Kids:
Conducting tours for kids in the neighbourhood helps them understand how to navigate within their immediate environment and locate facilities such as schools, playgrounds, fire stations, and other related amenities. During these tours, boundaries can be set for children, and they can receive guidance on actions to take if they are tempted to exceed these boundaries.
In summary, implementing the strategic approaches identified above to address insecurity will enhance peace and safety in each area and, consequently, the entire nation. This task is the responsibility of everyone. By collaborating with neighbours and cooperating with law enforcement agencies, individuals indirectly contribute to the safety of their environment and society at large.
Rotn. ESV. Bayo Kingsley Modeyin is the Irresistible President
Rotary Club of Olambe, 2024/2025 Rotary Year
