By Ralph Omololu Agnana
When the organisers of the Democracy Newsline Newspaper Award (DNNA) announced Senator Sunday Karimi as the recipient of the “Most Security-Conscious Senator in Nigeria” award in 2024, the decision reflected more than political popularity. It was a recognition of a legislator whose interventions in security have gone beyond motions and speeches to practical investments aimed at protecting lives and communities.
The award, presented during the 14th anniversary celebration of Democracy Newsline Newspaper in Abuja, followed an opinion poll and assessment conducted by a team of independent evaluators. While Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin was named Northern Senator of the Year and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu emerged Senator of the Year, Karimi stood out for his sustained efforts to confront insecurity in Kogi West Senatorial District.
For residents of the region, the recognition came as little surprise.
Over the years, communities across Kogi West have grappled with kidnapping, armed robbery, and cross-border criminal activities, particularly along the Kogi-Kwara axis. Faced with these challenges, Karimi adopted an approach that combined legislative advocacy with direct intervention.
One of his most notable contributions was the construction and equipping of a military Forward Operating Base (FOB) on the Kogi-Kwara border. The facility, which was privately financed by the senator, was designed to strengthen military presence in an area long considered vulnerable to criminal attacks.
Beyond constructing the base, Karimi also provided operational support, including brand-new patrol vehicles and logistics aimed at enhancing the mobility and effectiveness of security personnel deployed to the area.
His interventions did not stop there.
To strengthen security coverage across Kogi West, additional military personnel were facilitated to strategic communities including Jege, Odo-Ere, Isanlu and Olle-Bunu. Recognising the importance of welfare in effective security operations, he also made arrangements for accommodation and support services for deployed troops.
Community leaders say these measures have helped improve response times and increased the visibility of security personnel in previously vulnerable locations.
Karimi has also been actively involved in supporting communities affected by kidnappings, visiting victims’ families and contributing to local efforts aimed at securing the release of abducted persons.
In several instances, he provided protective equipment for security operatives working in difficult terrains and high-risk areas across the district.
Beyond security infrastructure, the senator has invested in projects with direct security implications. One such intervention was the rehabilitation of the Pakuta Bridge in Kiri-Bunu Kingdom, a critical link that had remained dilapidated for more than 15 years.
The bridge project, reportedly funded personally by the lawmaker at a cost of N23 million, restored access between communities and improved movement within an area that had become vulnerable to criminal activities due to poor road connectivity.
Observers note that the project demonstrated an understanding that security challenges are often linked to infrastructure deficits and social exclusion.
At the national level, Karimi has consistently advocated reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture. As Chairman of the Senate Services Committee, he has repeatedly called for greater decentralisation of policing and measures to enhance community-based security initiatives.
Supporters argue that his interventions reflect a broader philosophy that security should not be left entirely to government agencies but requires collaborative efforts involving elected representatives, communities and security institutions.
As Nigeria continues to confront complex security challenges, Karimi’s recognition as the country’s Most Security-Conscious Senator highlights a model of leadership that combines policy engagement with practical action.
For many residents of Kogi West, the award is not merely a title but a reflection of visible interventions they believe have contributed to making their communities safer.