Tackling Insecurity: Experts and Security Chiefs Call for Stronger Regional Cooperation
Security experts and top officials are urging Nigeria to strengthen collaboration with its French-speaking neighbors to improve national security. This call was made in a communiqué released after a roundtable discussion at the first annual lecture of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) on February 13.
Strengthening Security Ties
The communiqué, signed by key security officials, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa, highlighted Nigeria’s growing security challenges. These include terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, cybercrime, and illegal arms trafficking. To address these issues, experts stressed the need for closer cooperation with neighboring countries like Niger, Cameroon, Chad, and Benin Republic.
One of the major recommendations was recruiting security personnel fluent in French to enhance intelligence-sharing with Francophone nations. This, they believe, will strengthen border security and improve regional intelligence operations.
Addressing Security Gaps
Participants also expressed concern over the lack of adequate security personnel to cover all communities, especially ungoverned spaces. They called for improved community policing and urged local governments to take more responsibility in securing their areas using the financial autonomy granted to them.
Arming Local Communities for Defense
During the discussion, Director-General of the State Security Service (SSS) Oluwatosin Ajayi emphasized the importance of empowering local communities. He proposed that they serve as the first line of defense against insurgency before security agencies step in. Citing an example from Bauchi State, he explained how a community in Azare successfully defended itself against Boko Haram militants.
Ajayi noted that security forces alone cannot protect every Nigerian, and local communities must be actively involved. He suggested allowing some level of armament for these communities so they can protect themselves before reinforcements arrive.
A Holistic Approach to Security
Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa called for a comprehensive strategy to tackle insecurity. He pointed out that modern threats, from cybercrime to climate-induced conflicts, require a proactive and technology-driven response. He encouraged security agencies to embrace innovation, intelligence-sharing, and strategic partnerships to stay ahead of criminals.
Musa emphasized that security threats are complex and require collaboration across all levels. He urged stakeholders to take concrete action rather than just discuss problems, ensuring that security strategies lead to real results.
