Mimiko Urges Decentralisation of Nigeria’s Security Architecture

Former Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, has called for a fundamental restructuring of Nigeria’s security framework, highlighting the critical need for decentralisation. Speaking at the 13th anniversary celebration of Gallery Security Services Limited, held at Agadagba-Obon in Ese Odo Local Government Area, Mimiko emphasized that effective security must start at the grassroots, especially within local communities.

In his remarks, Mimiko recounted the inception of Gallery Security Services, a homegrown security outfit founded by Senior High Chief Bibopere Ajube. Mimiko disclosed that as governor, he endorsed the establishment of the security company after Ajube presented the concept to complement national security agencies in combating crimes in Ondo’s waterways and riverine areas. Thirteen years later, the security firm has become a formidable force in significantly reducing kidnappings, sea piracy, armed robberies, and other high-profile crimes across Ondo, Edo, Ogun, and Lagos waterways.

“Gallery Security Services has demonstrated the vital role localised security plays in fostering peace and order,” Mimiko said, describing the firm’s growth from a small initiative to a major security player that has restored calm to previously vulnerable communities.

Mimiko urged policymakers to decentralise Nigeria’s security architecture to replicate the success witnessed in Ondo State. He argued that this approach would make security more responsive and effective by leveraging community knowledge and local engagement.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy Olaide Adelani, echoed support for such collaborations, pledging to sustain partnerships with private security outfits like Gallery Security to strengthen the state’s security landscape.

The event also featured laudations from notable figures including Ndutimi Alaibe, former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, and Kingsley Kuku, former presidential aide and chairman of the Presidential Amnesty Programme. They commended Ajube’s patriotism and courage in tackling insecurity in the Niger Delta’s waterways.

Gallery Security Service has employed over 1,000 youths from Ondo State to patrol and secure the riverine and coastal communities, a move that also addresses youth unemployment and helps prevent recruitment into criminal activities. The firm operates under the regulatory oversight of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and aligns with the national community policing model.

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High-profile dignitaries at the event included Elder Godsday Orubebe, former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs; Olusola Oke, SAN; the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin; and Zaccheus Egbunu, the Agadagba of Arogbo Kingdom, among other traditional rulers and community leaders.

The consensus emerging from the gathering is clear: decentralising security to empower local actors and community-led initiatives is a viable strategy to combat the complex insecurity challenges Nigeria faces today.