Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, emphasized the alarming insecurity plaguing northern Nigeria, attributing it to poverty, unemployment, and institutional failures, among other factors. Speaking at the inaugural international lecture organized by the News Agency of Nigeria, he urged Nigerians to maintain faith in the ongoing fight against insecurity, highlighting the collective responsibility of every citizen in addressing this critical issue.
Abubakar pointed out that the underlying causes of insecurity in the region include rampant poverty, high unemployment rates, the proliferation of small arms, weak governance, and the effects of climate change and environmental degradation. He warned that these factors have created a fertile ground for insecurity to flourish, leading to devastating consequences for the nation. However, he encouraged citizens not to lose hope in their ability to overcome these challenges, stating that the fight against insecurity is a shared responsibility for all Nigerians and, indeed, all Africans.
In his address, Abubakar called for collaboration between citizens, the government, and security agencies to address the multifaceted issue of insecurity. He stated, “Not only must we work together to find solutions to our country’s security challenges, we also owe it to ourselves, our children, and future generations to create a safer and more prosperous nation.”
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, echoed Abubakar’s sentiments, noting that Nigeria’s vulnerability to conflict is exacerbated by its long and porous borders with several Sahelian countries experiencing turmoil. Idris acknowledged that these border challenges threaten national security and complicate the government’s ability to maintain effective border control.
Despite the prevailing challenges, Idris asserted that the country is making progress in the fight against insecurity. He highlighted that since taking office 16 months ago, the government has acquired 12 aircraft to enhance the operational capacity of the armed forces.
In conclusion, the fight against insecurity in Nigeria requires a united front. By addressing the root causes of insecurity and fostering collaboration between citizens and the government, Nigeria can work towards a safer and more prosperous future for all its citizens.