Directors of the State Security Service (SSS), on Wednesday, converged in Gombe to delibrate on security challenges bedevilling the North-East region.

Habu Sambo, the SSS director in charge of Gombe state, said this during the inauguration of a three-day retreat in Gombe.

He said the meeting was a significant step towards addressing the security challenges facing the region.

Mr Sambo, who is also the chairman of the state directors of security, North-East zone, said the meeting would also provide a platform to cross-fertilise ideas and experiences of best practices and forge partnerships on collective efforts to ensure the safety and security of the people.

He commended the Gombe government, residents of the state, and religious and community leaders for their cooperation.

The deputy governor of the state, Manassah Jatau, tasked the participants to proffer solutions that would identify and tackle emerging challenges like cyber crimes, of kidnapping, terrorism, farmers/herders’ clashes, cattle rustling among others.

“As you spend three days discussing your mandate, I urge you to protect and defend the Federal Republic of Nigeria from threats of enemies and those who do not want the prosperity of our nation,” he said

While commending all the security agencies in the state, Mr Manassah pledged continued government support to the service.

Also, Hayatu Usman, the Commissioner of Police in Gombe, urged the participants to proffer lasting solutions to security challenges in the country.

Highlights of the event included the presentation of plaques to Gov. Inuwa Yahaya, Emir of Gombe, Abubakar Shehu III and heads of security agencies in the state.

(NAN)