In this age, security concerns form a crucial part of the policies of all governments. No matter the size or geographical location of a country, the eminent threat posed by international terrorism (individual and state-sponsored terrorism), and all other forms of criminality, makes it a priority that countries should ensure that sound security modalities are in place.

You do not need to offend anyone these days to be a viable target. The twin attacks on the US Embassies in Nairobi and Dar-es-Salem, in 1998, are a clear illustration of that.

It is therefore a cause for rejoicing for the people of The Gambia that we are blessed with a leadership that has not only demonstrated real security concern, which is indeed a genuine concern, but has gone further to make it a top priority in its development agenda.

 Of course, the performance of our security services have hardly been found wanting, and it has been improving incredibly, thanks to the support they enjoy from the top leadership of the country; in terms of moral, material and financial support.

As a matter of fact, the level of security The Gambia enjoys is responsible for its increasing popularity as a destination for people from an array of countries; from Africa to the Mediterranean, right across the Atlantic.

It is reassuring to note that our security-minded government has not lost touch with the need to venture into the fast changing technological world, which has become so prominent that one's failure to get themselves well prepared makes them even more susceptible to attacks of all sorts.

The installation of the new state-of the-art security equipment - the biometrics visa system - puts this small but great country of ours far ahead of many countries in the region and beyond. This development does not only demonstrate The Gambia government's resolve to safeguarding the security of its citizens, but it also reaffirms its degree of commitment to its responsibilities. It also re-emphasises our position in terms of ensuring international security.

But as President Jammeh himself urged during the inauguration of this facility, which is a monumental national pride, the instalment of the equipment by government is just a step in this genuine drive for international safety and security; the issue of sustenance, which rests solely on the shoulders of the common citizens, especially those directly in charge of its upkeep, is of crucial importance.

It is important for Gambians, therefore, to note that every single stride we register is sort of a prerequisite for another development level. We can only claim to be making true progress if we are able to maintain our gains, but not by destroying and replacing what we have already achieved. If we want to maintain the development trend we have been undertaking, it is of paramount importance that we jealousy maintain what we have first.