The National Orientation Agency (NOA), Katsina State Directorate, has launched a security awareness campaign across border local government areas of the state to educate residents on cross-border crimes and encourage community participation in efforts to curb insecurity.

The campaign covers Jibia, Kaita, Mashi, Mai’adua, Zango and Baure local government areas.

Speaking at the launch in Jibia on Sunday, the State Director of NOA, Alhaji Muntari Lawal Tsagem, said criminal elements often exploit festive periods to infiltrate the country through informal border routes.

According to him, such activities include the trafficking of illicit drugs, smuggling of illegal arms and the movement of hoodlums, which he said contribute significantly to security challenges facing the state and the nation.

Tsagem urged residents of border communities to support government efforts by promptly reporting suspicious persons or movements to security agencies to enable swift response.

He also called on citizens to demonstrate patriotism and loyalty to the country, while cautioning parents to closely monitor their children and protect them from drug abuse and other social vices that could make them vulnerable to recruitment by criminal gangs.

The NOA director further appealed to community and religious leaders to promote peaceful coexistence and mutual respect with neighbouring communities in the Niger Republic. He encouraged them to uphold the law and discharge their civic responsibilities diligently.

Tsagem commended Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umar Radda, for what he described as sustained efforts to address security challenges in the state, and urged residents to support the administration’s commitment to restoring peace and stability.

The campaign is part of NOA’s broader strategy to strengthen public awareness and community engagement in tackling insecurity, particularly in border areas considered vulnerable to transnational crimes.