Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola has pledged to support efforts by the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) to secure greater recognition and a clearer role in Nigeria’s national security architecture.

Adeola made the commitment during an engagement with members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, where he commended the organisation for its preparedness and plans to protect citizens and defend the integrity of the electoral process.

The senator, while speaking on his political engagement in Ogun State, said he was surprised by the level of acceptance he had received from residents across the state.

“From 2017 till now, you waited patiently until Yayi would come, but eventually, Yayi has come,” Adeola said, referring to his political journey and the support he said he had received from the people.

He said residents of Ogun State had consistently participated in elections, adding that the 2027 general election would witness a significant level of participation.

Adeola also commended the VGN for its preparedness to protect citizens and safeguard their votes, stressing the importance of strengthening community-based security organisations within the broader national security framework.

He urged the organisation to present its proposed bill to the National Assembly as part of efforts to secure statutory recognition and clarify its responsibilities.

According to him, he would support the proposed legislation, while also seeking the assistance of the Minister of Interior in advancing the interests of the organisation.

Adeola said the VGN had existed since 1983 and was formally registered in 1994, arguing that its long history and community presence should be reflected in its recognition and operational framework.

He further pledged to support measures aimed at improving the organisation’s acceptance and effectiveness, including efforts to provide an appropriate legal framework for its activities.

The senator said there was a need to properly position the VGN within Nigeria’s security architecture so that it could contribute more effectively to national security.

He maintained that strengthening and properly regulating community-based security organisations could help improve collaboration with formal security agencies and enhance efforts to protect communities.

Adeola’s remarks come amid continuing discussions over the role of community-based security groups in complementing the work of Nigeria’s conventional security agencies.