The Senator representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Senator Sunday Karimi, has received national recognition for his security contributions, being named the “Most Security-Conscious Senator in Nigeria” at the Democracy Newsline Newspaper Awards.
The honour was conferred during the 14th anniversary celebration of Democracy Newsline Newspaper, during which outstanding public officeholders were recognised for their impact and service to the nation.
According to the organisers, award recipients were selected through opinion polls conducted by a team of experts who evaluated the performance and influence of political officeholders nationwide.
The Publisher of Democracy Newsline Newspaper, Femi Ilubemi, disclosed that while Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin was honoured with the Northern Senator of the Year award and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu received the Senator of the Year award, Senator Karimi was singled out for his extensive efforts toward improving security across Kogi West and neighbouring communities.
He noted that one of the Senator’s most notable interventions is the facilitation and personal funding of a fully equipped military Forward Operating Base (FOB) situated along the Kogi-Kwara border.
According to him, the facility was established to bolster the fight against kidnapping, banditry and armed robbery in the area. He added that the lawmaker also donated two brand-new Hilux vehicles to enhance military operations.
Karimi further facilitated the deployment of additional military personnel to vulnerable communities, including Jege, Odo-Ere, Isanlu and Olle-Bunu.
“To ensure operational efficiency, he provided accommodation and welfare support for troops stationed in the affected areas.
“These interventions complement the existing 96-bed Forward Operating Base in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area, which serves as a strategic hub for security operations within the district.
“Beyond infrastructure and logistics, the Senator has maintained active involvement in community-based security initiatives.
“He has visited communities affected by kidnapping incidents, supported efforts aimed at securing the release of victims, provided accommodation for security personnel and supplied body armour to frontline operatives in parts of Kogi West.”
Another major intervention attributed to the lawmaker is the rehabilitation of the Pakuta Bridge in the Kiri-Bunu Kingdom.
The bridge, which had remained in a deplorable condition for over 15 years, was reconstructed at a personal cost of N23 million. Its restoration improved access between communities and strengthened security and mobility within the Bunu axis, an area previously notorious for kidnapping.
As Chairman of the Senate Services Committee, Senator Karimi has also consistently advocated reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, including support for the decentralisation of policing and the establishment of state police.
Meanwhile, the Senator’s political future remains uncertain as he seeks a second term in the Senate to continue representing Kogi West Senatorial District.
However, his fate in the race is yet to be determined, as the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has not yet released the final results of the party’s primary election.
Observers say the combination of legislative advocacy and direct investment in security infrastructure has distinguished the lawmaker among his peers and significantly improved safety across Kogi West and adjoining areas.
Supporters maintain that the award reflects growing national recognition of Senator Karimi’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property through practical interventions and sustained collaboration with security agencies.
