SIR: To many Nigerians, the figures earmarked for security in national budgets often appear inflated. Year after year, billions are allocated to the military, defence procurement, intelligence operations, and internal security initiatives. Yet, the level of insecurity across the country continues to raise eyebrows. The common question remains: “Where is all this money going?” It is a valid concern.
But beyond the budget lines and official pronouncements lies a more complex reality—one often lost on the average citizen: The true cost of warfare and intelligence operations is not just steep—it is staggering.
Take air operations as an example. Military insiders have long noted that flying an Alpha Jet for a single mission can gulp up to a million naira in aviation fuel alone. This figure excludes routine maintenance, spare parts, logistics, or crew allowances. Multiply these flights across days and theatres of operation, and it becomes easier to understand why security efforts are financially demanding.
On the ground, the story is similar. Armoured vehicles, patrol vans, and tanks require constant fuelling, often idling for hours during missions. Soldiers deployed to remote areas need to be fed, clothed, and armed. Medical support must be on standby, and when fatalities occur, families of the fallen deserve compensation. These are not occasional expenses—they are daily operational necessities.
Still, beyond the financial weight of military engagement lies an even more fragile dimension: intelligence gathering. But intelligence is no miracle tool. It relies on actionable information—gathered, processed, and relayed with accuracy. In many of Nigeria’s conflict zones, such information is scarce. Rural and forested areas remain difficult to monitor due to the absence of surveillance infrastructure.
Intelligence work is not the sole burden of the military. It requires seamless coordination among the police, DSS, NSCDC, and even vigilante groups. Where this collaboration falters, intelligence fails. Technology, including drone surveillance and satellite imagery, must be embraced. But more than anything else, there must be political will to treat intelligence not as a side note, but as the beating heart of our national security strategy.
Nations like the US and Israel have built theirs over decades with enormous financial commitment. Nigeria, by contrast, is still trying to build its base. Still, quiet victories exist—many of them deliberately kept from the public domain for strategic reasons.
Terror plots have been foiled, camps dismantled, and lives saved through intelligence-led operations. These successes rarely make headlines. Yes, we must keep asking questions—but with an understanding of the context. Accountability, yes, but also support, reform, and renewed trust. National security is not a spectator sport. It is a shared duty.
Abdulhamid Abdullahi Aliyu, Centre for Crisis Communication, Abuja.
Governor of Borno State Babagana Zulum painted an alarming picture suggesting that state actors were failing in their security role when he addressed participants in a special expanded security meeting at the Government House, Maiduguri, on April 8. The attendees included the General Officer Commanding 7 Division, Maj. Gen. Abubakar Haruna, sector commanders, the commissioner of police, heads of other security agencies and traditional rulers.
According to the governor, “The renewed Boko Haram attacks and kidnappings in many communities almost on a daily basis without confrontation signalled that Borno State is losing ground.”
He noted that “the recent attacks and dislodgement of military formations in Wajirko, Sabon Gari in Damboa local government area, Wulgo in Gamboru Ngala, Izge in Gwoza local government area among other related killing of innocent civilians and security agents calls for serious concern, and it is a setback in the fragile state of Borno and the North-East region”
Boko Haram insurgents had attacked two military formations in the state in March, an army base in Wajirko and another in Wulgo. Also, a convoy, including the Brigade Commander of ‘Operation Hadin Kai,’ struck landmines along the Maiduguri-Damboa-Biu road, resulting in fatalities.
In another incident, suspected members of Boko Haram and the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) reportedly killed about 40 farmers in the Dumba community in Kukawa local government area of the state, in January. Many others were believed to have been kidnapped by the insurgents during the attack.
Zulum called for “more efforts” by the security agencies “to stem the tide of renewed attacks bedevilling parts of the Sahelian Borno which shares international borders with three African countries of Chad, Niger and Cameroon.”
The Shehu of Borno, Abubakar El-Kanemi, observed that Guzamala, Marte, Abbadam local government areas and some parts of Mobbar local government area were still under Boko Haram’s control.
The governor and the traditional ruler are expected to be aware of the security realities in the state. Their narratives indicate that the country is far from winning the war on terror.
It is disturbing that after over a decade of the Federal Government’s anti-terrorism efforts, terrorists can still attack military formations, invade communities, abduct students and others, raid farms, and even take over territories.
The authorities should stop living in denial, promoting the narrative of victory over terrorism while the reality is so different. That is the import of these observations by the governor and the traditional ruler.
As calls for extensive security reforms continue across the country, Assistant News Editor/Head Security Desk Precious Igbonwelundu reports that the Nigeria Police are taking steps to emplace robust, effective and compassionate policing structure to enhance internal security and boost economic development.
How to make policing inclusive, effective and proactive for the majority of Nigerians was the thrust of this year’s Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers (CARSPO) held in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital last week.
For three days, 170 senior officers comprising five Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs), 37 Assistant Inspectors General (AIGs) and 120 Commissioners (CP) from the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and various training institutions converged on the H3 Conference Centre to rethink policing within Nigeria’s context and chart a way forward to improve security of lives and properties, as well as boost economic development in the country.
Themed “Improving Nigeria’s Internal Security and Economic Prosperity through Inclusive Policing,” the CARSPO, which was declared open by President Bola Tinubu through Vice President Kashim Shettima, gave the police the opportunity to review its past activities, identify areas of weaknesses, strengths and commence decisive steps to ensure that public trust and support are won through consistent visible reforms-driven actions.
To ensure all areas were covered to better realign policing objectives with the evolving global security landscape in the country, the theme was divided into nine sub-themes, with presentations made by experts on each sub-theme while participants were grouped in syndicates and tasked with presenting solutions on the various issues raised.
President Tinubu, at the opening, reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to supporting the Nigeria Police through infrastructure upgrade, inter-agency collaboration, and enhanced citizen cooperation.
Similarly, Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, highlighted initiatives like the reconstitution of the Law Enforcement Trust Fund; the planned provision of electric motorcycles, and advanced surveillance drones to enhance security.
Strategic and Intelligence-led Policing
Setting the tone for deliberations at the conference, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, recalled how the fourth edition of CARSPO, themed “Fostering Economic Prosperity, Social Integration, and Political Development Through Enhanced Internal Security Mechanisms,” which held last year in Owerri, highlighted the crucial roles of security in national development.
“While we previously focused on the broader integration of security mechanisms into national development, we now emphasise the critical aspect of inclusive policing: Highlighting the imperativeness of an all-society policing approach to addressing current security challenges and enhancing economic prosperity.
“This year’s theme captures the essence of our strategic direction. It mirrors President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s security vision and underscores our determination to cultivate a police force that is professionally competent, intelligence-driven, and equipped to confront emerging threats proactively…
“Our nation continues to confront complex threats, including violent crimes, cyber-related offenses, terrorism, and transnational organised crimes. To effectively address these challenges, intelligence-led policing must remain at the core of our operations.
“We are therefore committed to deepening strategic partnerships with both domestic and international security agencies while enhancing community engagement to bolster public trust and promote active citizen participation in policing.
“As we continue with the current policing year, our focus remains steadfast on enhancing intelligence-sharing, strengthening forensic and digital investigative capabilities, and upholding zero tolerance for corruption and human rights violation within the Force.
“Simultaneously, we will continue to prioritise the welfare and well-being of our officers to boost morale and enhance service delivery.
“The challenges before us are significant, but with strategic innovation, unwavering professionalism, and meaningful community partnerships, we will continue to make remarkable progress. The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in adapting to contemporary security challenges, ensuring safety and stability for all Nigerians,” Egbetokun said.
The Rwandan Police experience
In his presentation, the IG of Rwandan National Police (RNP), Felix Namuhoranye, elucidated the interplay between security and development, as sustained by inclusive policing, drawing on insights from Rwanda’s policing journey
He noted the need for inclusiveness within the Nigeria Police and then the community involvement in policing.
According to him, inclusiveness as an aspect of contemporary policing was a key enabler in the shift from a narrow understanding of security to a holistic view- human security.
Namuhoranye reiterated the need for community involvement in policing in order to enhance security and by extension drive socio-economic development.
“In this context, the goal of policing is preventing crime, not just catching criminals. Effective Police Forces have low arrest rates because they have low crime rates. Crime reduction is achieved as Police-Community cooperation leads to crime intelligence, to quicker response and eventually to crime prevention.
“Positive Police-Community interaction reduces suspicion and related conflicts; it is a trust building undertaking.
“In this ever changing global landscape, security and development are becoming increasingly intertwined and inextricably linked. One aspect cannot be achieved in isolation,” he said.
Namuhoranye called for enhanced cooperation between African law enforcement agencies for capacity building and intelligence sharing.
He recommended a shift from the traditional way of policing to a pro-active, preventive, and pro-people (inclusive), human security approach to policing, listing four major shortfalls- aggressive policing, unnecessary social distance, minimum responsiveness and reactive policing- that must be discarded.
He said Rwanda implemented an inclusive recruitment and training of the police; adopted Community-Oriented Policing; supported 1,917,984 youth volunteers in crime prevention, over 2,000 anti-crime clubs contextualised to prevailing local insecurities and related crimes, infrastructure and technology upgrades, among other strategies deployed in order to actualise the mandate given to the police by President Paul Kigame.
“Introducing new tools to ensure sustained internal security. Drones in public order management, fire-fighting, border security, anti-smuggling, communication campaigns… Road safety enforcement systems (traffic cameras, body-worn cameras, Automobile Inspection Centers, Automated Driving Testing Centers), Artificial Intelligence tools and smart classrooms,” he said.
Call for robust mental health for cops
Another major issue that was deliberated on was the mental health and well-being of Police officers with emphasis made on the need for compassion even within the police force.
Emphasising the importance of Police personnel being mentally fit and ready while discharging their duties, experts noted that on the job stressors and pressures were much and usually took their toll on the personnel.
They suggested a return to the eight-hour shift for policemen on duty, and recommended that the police should consider opening a centre where personnel returning from operations would be kept, debriefed and counseled before returning to their families and units.
They also advised that there should be more compassion even within the force. The senior officers should factor a way to hear the other ranks out in order to know the challenges they are going through. That way, they don’t become dangers to themselves and the society at large.
The Niger Delta Development Commission’s (NSCDC) boss, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, who was at the opening ceremony, recommended psychological assessments, stress management interventions, and pre/post-retirement counseling services for the police.
Resolutions
At the end of the three-day conference and retreat, participants reached far-reaching resolutions including the establishment of a Behavioral Analysis Unit to enhance intelligence gathering and crime prevention; unanimous agreement that inclusive policing be prioritised through people-centered community-driven strategies to foster trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the public, and the establishment of a COMPSTAT performance management system with increased investment in digital policing tools, and the development of forensic units in all police commands.
Participants also agreed that regular psychological assessments and mental health support services be institutionalised for police personnel, just as the CARSPO endorsed a transition from reactive to proactive and preventive policing approaches.
It was resolved that the police should strengthen regional and international partnerships for capacity building in security and law enforcement, especially in the areas of border security and intelligence sharing.
Acquisition and deployment of electric motorcycles for improved mobility and crime prevention, as well as integration of technologically advanced surveillance equipment, including drones, in collaboration with international partners were also part of the resolutions.
Actionable points
In the immediate and medium term, the police will conduct a nationwide research on the impact of mental health on officers and the discharge of their duties; commence steps to revamp the Counselling Unit to accommodate mental health challenges with competent personnel within the Nigeria Police, as well as the implementation of a mental health policy that must be put in place after the nationwide research on mental health challenges within the police, so that the policy will be evidence-based.
Recruitment into the police and training would be more inclusive with flexible policy reforms and establishment of anti-crime clubs in schools.
Former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Alexander Ogumudia has advised the federal government to improve funding for the Armed Forces in order to contain ravaging insecurity.
He made the call at the Veterans Days event organised by the Nigerian Legion, Lagos Chapter, at the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) in Oshodi, weekend.
According to the former CDS, reliance on foreign aids would not help the security forces to completely decimate these threats, lamenting the years of neglect the armed forces had suffered.
Ogumudia who served as CDS under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, between 2003 and 2006, thanked the federal government and foreign allies that supported him with weapons.
He said it was difficult for the military to effectively combat violent extremism in the north due to the neglects suffered in the past.
The Nation reports that Ogumudia was CDS at a time the country was still grappling with the impact of the over 25 years ban on sales of equipment including firearms and ammunition as a result of the despostic years of military rule and alleged human rights abused.
Addressing the veterans, Ogumudia urged them to ensure they kept fit by engaging in regular physical exercises.
He also admonished them to undergo routine medical checks so that any ailment could be detected early and treated before it became problematic.
In his opening remarks, the chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Lagos State Chapter, Akeem Wolimoh, said the celebration was aimed at fostering a better relationship among retired military and para-military officers.
He said the Legion has taken steps to curb indiscipline and allegations of unlawful activities by its members, noting that a revalidation process was ongoing to ensure impostors were flushed out.
“The Nigerian Legion has put in measures such as revalidating all our members to check the excesses of legionaries in uniform who engaged in illegal duties.
“This exercise commenced six months after I took over as Lagos chairman and it is still ongoing. The goal is to ensure that all those who are members are captured and those who are not our members purged out. That way, we will be able to check these illegal activities you are talking about.
“The Nigerian Legion is an organisation established by law to take care of the military veterans and foster comradeship among ex-servicemen. But somehow, it has been challenging getting ex-soldiers to be part of the legion and one of the reasons is that we are considered a government agency.
“They believe that we are not independent and cannot act objectively in their interest but that is not so. The law empowers us to act objectively in the best interest of the veterans and the country at large…”
Wolimoh advised the federal government to give they special focus to the families of military veterans in the nation’s policy.
Also speaking, a retired Brig.-Gen. Funsho Oyeniyi, commended the government of President Bola Tinubu for taking steps to improve the welfare of military veterans, who he said, were neglected in the past.
“A veteran gets retired and doesn’t collect his retirement in full but thank God for our president all our entitlements have been paid and there is promise to even increase our entitlement because you discover that there is inflation.
“You cannot expect a veteran that retired from 40 years ago to still be collecting the same amount of money at the present time. So, the pensioner of yesteryears should be paid in reality of current rate so that they don’t leave in penury.
“I reiterate that things are getting better but they can be improved upon.
“Government should look at the rate of inflation and be realistic in whatever they are given.
If a pensioner is given something below the rate of inflation then such a money would not amount to anything.
“Military veterans assisted in keeping Nigeria together and in maintaining the peace so they are entitled to compensation now that they are old.
“What obtains in most developing countries is that before a veteran retires, there is accommodation for them that would keep him afloat and make him flow with the economy.
“But the Nigeria situation is such that we are not properly taken care of but things are getting better and can be improved upon,” he said.
The National President of Association of Ex-Local Government Chairmen of Nigeria (ASELGON), Albert Asipa, has said that local government autonomy would reduce crimes in the country.
Speaking during ASELGON Annual Retreat/Award at Golfview Suites & Conference Centre, Lagos, Asipa hailed Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for aligning with the association on local government autonomy.
He noted that the autonomy will drive grassroots development and curtail the insecurity bedeviling every state.
“The challenges of insecurity will be eradicated as every local government will have the financial capability to engage security personnel to fight the menace,” he said.
At the event, Sanwo-Olu received Best Governor in Support of Local Govt Autonomy award.
The governor, represented by Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Bolaji Robert, said local government autonomy is essential for bringing government and economic development closer to the good people.
He said by devolving power and resources to the third-tier of government, government can unlock the potential of various councils and create opportunities for sustainable development.
He said that Lagos State, which is the case study, is a shining example of what can be achieved when councils are empowered to take charge of their own development.
“From the innovative solutions we have provided to traffic management and waste disposal, to the investments in education and healthcare in tandem with the THEMES PLUS Agenda of the State Government, Lagos State has demonstrated the impact that effective local governance can have on the lives of citizens,” he said.
Vice President of ASELGON, Abiodun Mafe, reiterated the need to sensitise Nigerians about the autonomy of the local government, noting that Lagos State benefited immensely from council autonomy for the past 20 years.
“We are saying it boldly to states that are contesting the local government autonomy that, we have practised it in Lagos State and we are successful. If you go around state, you will see numerous infrastructural developments achieved through local government autonomy.’’
He noted that the retreat is to educate other states on how to implement the autonomy to gain immensely from it.
Chairman, Organising Committee and Chairman of Lagos State Local Government Service Commission, Kamal Bayewu, said Lagos State is enjoying autonomy and that is why there is growth and development at the grassroots.
“The government of the grassroots is being felt in Lagos State and that is why we are imploring our colleagues in all other states to come around, make Lagos a case study, so that when they get back to their various states, they can let the people know what Lagos is enjoying.
Protecting your home is crucial for peace of mind, and it doesn’t have to be a complex task. Whether you live alone or with your family, your home should be a haven—a place where safety and comfort come first.
Unfortunately, break-ins are more frequent than we’d like to admit and often happen when no one is around, making your property vulnerable.
To reduce the risk and make your home less appealing to intruders, taking proactive security measures is essential.
Here are practical steps you can take to strengthen your home security in Nigeria:
1. Get a Guard Dog or Join a Neighbourhood Watch
Dogs are known for their loyalty, but they’re also natural protectors. Even smaller, vocal breeds can alert you to strange activity around your home. Additionally, joining or starting a neighbourhood watch program can help create a network of vigilance, where neighbours keep an eye on each other’s properties and report any suspicious activity. This sense of community goes a long way in discouraging criminals.
2. Upgrade Your Locks and Reinforce Doors
A sturdy lock is your first line of defense against break-ins. Replace basic locks with high-quality deadbolts and consider installing additional security bolts or security bars on all main entry doors. For added convenience and control, invest in smart locks, which let you remotely manage access to your home and even monitor entry points while you’re away.
Reinforcing doors with stronger materials like steel or hardwood is also a great move. For further peace of mind, you can install door sensors that send an alert when a door is opened unexpectedly.
3. Install Security Cameras and Alarm Systems
Visible security cameras are a powerful deterrent. Place cameras at strategic points, such as the front and back doors, as well as around your yard. Look for models with night vision and motion detection to ensure 24/7 coverage. Pair your cameras with an alarm system that notifies you when there’s a potential threat. Many modern security cameras and alarms can be monitored remotely from your smartphone, so you’re always in the loop, no matter where you are.
Lighting is an easy and effective way to enhance your home’s security. Motion-sensor lights automatically turn on when they detect movement, which can scare off intruders and make it difficult for them to approach unnoticed. Solar-powered lights are particularly well-suited for Nigeria’s sunny climate, as they don’t depend on the power grid and are energy-efficient. This option not only boosts your security but also helps you reduce electricity costs.
5. Reinforce Windows with Bars or Security Films
Windows are one of the most common entry points for burglars, so securing them is crucial. Installing burglar bars provides a solid physical barrier against break-ins. Alternatively, you can opt for laminated security glass, which is more resistant to shattering. If bars don’t fit with your home’s aesthetic, consider applying security film to your windows, or installing window alarms that trigger if someone attempts to break or tamper with the glass.
By following these five practical steps, you can create a multi-layered security system that greatly reduces the chances of a break-in. Each of these measures works together to strengthen your home’s defenses, giving you the confidence and peace of mind that your home is well protected for years to come.
To improve on gains of security in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG) , theNavy has deployed five warships, two helicopters and two fast attack boats for this year’s multinational sea exercise, GRAND AFRICAN NEMO 2024.
The exercise, a force multiplier executed with navies of Benin and Togo, as well as allies from United Kingdom, France and Spain, seeks to foster collaborations, seamless intelligence sharing and effective communication between participating forces.
He said the simulations would be synchronised such that each navy would hand over the next to depict real life situations.
Ogalla, represented by the Admiral Superintendent of Naval Ordnance Depot (ASNOD), Rear Admiral Livingston Izu, said the exercise was to equip navies and coast-guards of GoG region with strategic international partners, who identify with the vision of a safe and secure region for shared prosperity and development.
The Nation reports navies of about 26 countries would be joining the seven-day exercise with Spain and France, etc. bringing in some of their warships to participate.
Ogalla noted that the exercise presented opportunity for like-minded partners to develop African-led solutions to transnational threats and challenges to promote regional security.
He urged participating ships, personnel and maritime information entities to embrace GRAND AFRICAN NEMO 2024 to attain objectives of the exercise as articulated in the directive promulgated by NHQ.
“May I therefore use this opportunity to restate the commitment of the Nigerian Navy to regional collaboration, geared towards ensuring and emplacing a safe and secure common maritime space for economic activities to thrive.
“Recent collaborative efforts between the Nigerian Navy and the African Union towards signing a memorandum of understanding on the provision of strategic sea lift and its implication for overall regional maritime security is a clear testament of our resolve in this regard.
“These efforts are also in alignment with the planned takeoff of the combined maritime task force under the auspices of the African Union for effective regional collaboration.
“At this point it is important to not only reaffirm the unalloyed commitment of the Nigerian Navy to our constitutional role of defending the territorial integrity of Nigeria, but also to the sustained fight against crude oil theft under my able and steady leadership.
“I am to emphasise, that as the bastion of Nigeria’s sea power potentials, the Nigerian Navy will continue to remain relentless and resolute in this task of ensuring a safe and secured maritime space that facilitates a thriving blue economy towards enhanced prosperity for all Nigerians in line with the President’s renewed hope agenda.
“In this regard, the Nigerian Navy will continue to remain a highly professional and dedicated military service that all well-meaning Nigerians will continue to be proud of,” the CNS said.
In his welcome address, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Michael Gregory Oamen, disclosed that the exercise would hold concurrently within the 5 maritime operation zones in the Gulf of Guinea.
According to him, the exercise would be executed during national and zonal phases.
“On its part, the NN will deploy five ships, two Special Boat Service (SBS), detachments, two helicopters and maritime operation centres.
“Joining the NN during the national and zonal phases will be ships from the UK and Spain. I have absolutely no doubt that the various training scenarios that will be conducted over the next few days will provide the needed impetus towards enhancing our collective maritime combat experiences in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime assets” he said.
• NSGF seeks equity, fairness in implementation of national policies, programmes
Political leaders and traditional rulers of the North have rejected the Value Added Tax (VAT) sharing proposal in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bill being considered by the National Assembly.
The leaders expressed support for the livestock reform programme which has led to the creation of the Livestock Development Ministry.
They are also delighted with the gains made in the battle against bandits and terrorists in the region in recent times.
They made these positions known yesterday after a meeting of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and the traditional rulers in the three geo-political zones – Northwest, Northeast and Northcentral – led by Sultan of Sokoto Sa’ad Abubakar III.
The President a few days ago sent an Executive Tax Reform Bill to the National Assembly for consideration and passage.
The comprehensive outlay of tax plans, billed to go into effect from January 1, is targeted at taxing the upper class more than the middle and lower classes.
The VAT is planned to be imposed on luxury items and increased to 15 per cent. Tax on items is currently 7.5 per cent.
But the governors and the Northern States Council of Emirs and Chiefs said the new arrangement on tax sharing is against the interest of the North.
Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya, chair of the NSGF, who read the communiqué of the meeting held in Kaduna, said: “Forum notes with dismay the content of the recent Tax Reform Bill that was forwarded to the National Assembly.
“The contents of the Bill are against the interests of the North and other sub-nationals especially the proposed amendment to the distribution of VAT to a derivation-based model.
“This is because companies remit VAT using the location of their headquarters and tax office and not where the services and goods are consumed.
“In view of the foregoing, the Forum unanimously rejects the proposed Tax Amendments and calls on members of the National Assembly to oppose any bill that can jeopardise the well-being of our people.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Northern Governors Forum is not averse to any policies or programmes that will ensure the growth and development of the country.
“However, the Forum calls for equity and fairness in the implementation of all national policies and programmes to ensure that no geopolitical zone is short-changed or marginalised.”
The Forum also discussed a wide range of issues affecting the Northern Region, including insecurity, cost of living crisis and electricity supply challenges.
It called on the Federal Government to immediately consider building additional transmission lines and diversify the energy supply to better connect the region.
The communiqué of the meeting is as follows:
•“Forum extends its deepest sympathies to the victims of the recent flood disasters in Maiduguri and other parts of the North, as well as to the families affected by the tragic tanker explosion in Jigawa State.
•“The Forum equally commiserates with other victims of terrorism, banditry and similar criminal activities in the North and Nigeria at large and stand in solidarity with them during these difficult times.
•“We agreed to continue to work with the Federal Government and relevant agencies to provide the necessary support and relief to those affected.
•“Forum emphasises that traditional institutions are critical in the quest for lasting peace and security in the region.
•“Forum also acknowledged their commitment to bridging the gap between the Government and the people. Forum advocates for increased roles for the traditional institutions to maximise cooperation with security agencies in the fight against kidnap for ransom, banditry, cattle rustling, communal clashes, farmers/herder clashes and other forms of criminality.
•“Forum acknowledges the recent gains made against criminals, especially the elimination of bandits and terror leaders.
•“However, we resolved to sustain these gains to ensure lasting peace and stability in the sub-region.
•“Forum commend the Federal Government and security agencies for their commitment in ensuring that our communities are safe and secure.
•“Particularly, we commend the untiring commitment of the Chief of Defence Staff General C. G Musa whose professionalism and innovative approach have made a difference in the security architecture of the Country at large.
•“Nevertheless, more needs to be done to address pockets of challenges that abound in the Northern Region.
•“With the recent ‘End Bad Governance’ protests that took place in August, the Forum resolved to scale up efforts to tackle the root causes of youth restiveness by investing in education, skills development, job creation and pathways for the youth to channel their energy into productive ventures, thereby reducing their vulnerability to crime and social vices.
•“Forum resolves to call on the Federal Government and relevant agencies to urgently address the current electricity power blackout affecting most of the Northern states due to vandalisation of electricity transmission infrastructure.
•“This matter not only underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure but also the need to build additional transmission lines and diversify our energy supply so as to better connect our region and improve our energy resilience.
•“Forum agrees that Northern Nigeria holds immense agricultural potential, which, if fully harnessed, can significantly alleviate hunger and boost economic growth.
•“To achieve this, we resolved to provide adequate support to our farmers, including access to financing, modern farming techniques and infrastructure such as roads and irrigation systems.
•“Agriculture should not only be seen as a means to feed our people but also as a catalyst for industrialisation and job creation across the region.
•“That can be achieved through the re-industrialisation of the North, especially by reviving the textile value chain and development of other agro-allied industries.
•“Forum commends His Excellency, the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the reform initiative in the livestock sub-sector and agreed to provide the necessary political will and commitment to ensure the success of the Federal Government livestock development initiatives.
•“The Forum also agreed to sustain engagement and cross-fertilisation of ideas with the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee to achieve greater results.
•Forum acknowledges the fact that climate change has greatly affected our environment resulting in the recent flood incidents in many parts of the North and therefore resolved to partner with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to build irrigation infrastructure like canals and waterways to divert excess water and channel them towards irrigation activities, thus enhancing rural livelihoods and safeguarding food security.
•“Forum agrees to support and key into any initiative aimed at addressing the challenges of out-of-school-children and improving educational outcomes in the sub-region.
•“On the present economic hardship affecting the Country, the Forum is appealing to all citizens to remain calm, as the states and Federal Government are working hard to implement measures that will cushion the effects of the hardship.”
In attendance were governors Uba Sani (Kaduna), Babagana Zulum (Borno), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara), Dauda Lawa (Zamfara), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), and Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa).
Also present were the Sultan Abubakar III; Shehu of Borno, Umar El-Kanemi; Emir of Zazzau, Ahmad Nuhu Bamali; Ohinoyi of Ebira land, Alhaji Ahmad Tijani; Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar; Emir of Kazaure, Najib Husaini Adamu, and Emir of Bauchi, among others.
• Bianca, six others likely for Senate screening on Wed
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took a tough stance yesterday on the enforcement of some cost-saving measures.
In a personal memo, he directed that no member of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) should have more than three vehicles in a convoy.
None of them is also expected to have more than five security personnel – four policemen and one Directorate of State Service (DSS) operative – attached to him.
Security chiefs are also affected by these decisions.
Heads of military and para-military agencies will collaborate with the National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu to determine the suitable reduction in their security detail.
The NSA is mandated to ensure compliance.
These decisions are in line with the government’s position on reduction in the cost of governance.
The presidential directive was made known yesterday by Bayo Ononuga.
The Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the President said: “President Bola Tinubu has restricted ministers, ministers of state, and heads of agencies of the Federal Government to a maximum of three vehicles in their official convoys.
“No additional vehicles will be assigned to them for movement. The cost-cutting measure was announced today (yesterday) in a statement signed by the President.
“In January, President Tinubu took significant steps to reduce government expenditure by reducing his entourage on foreign trips from 50 to 20 officials. For local trips, he reduced it to 25 officials.
“He similarly reduced the Vice President’s entourage to five officials on foreign trips and 15 for local trips.
“In the directive issued today (yesterday), President Tinubu also ordered all ministers, ministers of state, and heads of agencies to have at most five security personnel attached to them.
“The security team will comprise four police officers and one DSS officer.
“No additional security personnel will be assigned.
“President Tinubu instructed the National Security Adviser to engage with the military, paramilitary and security agencies to determine a suitable reduction in their vehicle and security personnel deployment.
“All affected officials are expected to comply with these new measures immediately, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of these changes.”
Tinubu seeks Senate confirmation of ministerial nominees
Also yesterday, President Tinubu urged the Senate to confirm his seven ministers-designate.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio read the President’s letter during plenary.
The nominees are Dr Nentawe Yilwatda (Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction), Muhammadu Dingyadi (Labour & Employment), Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu (State Foreign Affairs), and Dr Jumoke Oduwole (Industry, Trade and Investment).
Others are Idi Mukhtar Maiha (Livestock Development), Yusuf Ata (State Housing and Urban Development), and Dr. Suwaiba Ahmad (State Education).
Akpabio referred the nominees to the Committee of Whole for further legislative work as soon as possible.
It was learnt that the nominees may be screened on Wednesday.
One of five ministers discharged on Wednesday, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, who was in charge of Women Affairs, thanked President Tinubu and Nigerians for the opportunity to serve.
She wrote on X: “I write to express my sincere gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to contribute to the development of our nation.
“I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for her invaluable guidance and support during my tenure as Minister of Women Affairs.
“Her kindness and encouragement have been instrumental to my success.
“To the people of Nigeria, I am deeply grateful for your unwavering support.
“Your trust and confidence in me have been a constant source of inspiration.
“I remain committed to serving my country and will continue to do my utmost to contribute to its progress and prosperity.”
Ohanenye was one of those who contested for the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential ticket along with President Tinubu and others.
Lalong hosts nominee
Yilwatda, who is the ministerial nominee from Plateau State, visited Senator Simon Lalong.
If confirmed, he will replace Lalong who resigned from FEC to take his Senate seat, which was in contention when he was appointed minister.
Since he left the cabinet to take his Senate seat, Plateau did not have representation in FEC.
Yilwatda appreciated Lalong, leader of APC in the state, for his leadership, which he described as pivotal to his nomination.
Yilwatda said his nomination is a victory for the APC and the people of Plateau who demonstrated enormous confidence and goodwill during the last elections where he contested for governor.
He promised to do his best to serve the nation and ensure that the Renewed Hope Agenda is achieved.
Lalong, in a statement by his spokesman Dr Makut Macham, said the appointment had rejuvenated APC on the Plateau.
A former presidential spokesman, Dr Doyin Okupe, commended President Tinubu’s decision to scrap ‘superfluous ministries’ in his cabinet reshuffle.
He said: “President Tinubu has done the needful by his mid-term rejig of his cabinet.
“Scrapping superfluous ministries is in line with removing waste and making government compact and effective, this is commendable.”
In his Independence Day broadcast, President Bola Tinubu said his administration was winning the war on terror and banditry.
The President said his administration’s target was to eliminate all the threats of Boko Haram, banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and all forms of violent extremism.
He added that over 300 Boko Haram and bandit commanders have been eliminated within a year.
“It is an unfinished business, which our security agencies are committed to ending as quickly as possible,” he said.
The scourge of violent extremism in the Northeast has been tamed and displaced persons are returning to their homes in droves.
Farming activities have returned in the northeastern states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa though not at full scale as some of the terrorists hibernating around the Lake Chad Basin region were reported to be levying locals to access farms.
In the northwest, kidnapping for ransom, terrorism and other forms of violent extremism are still pervasive.
Victims have told tales of their families paid through their noses to secure the release of their loved ones abducted.
Aside from the kidnapping for ransom, some of the terror kingpins have also imposed fines and levies on communities with stated deadlines for payment or they risk extermination.
Zamfara Terror kingpin, Turji Bello, imposed a N50million penalty on the people of Moriki following the alleged killing of his herds by troops.
This situation which was brought to the public by security expert, Bulama Bukarti on September 11, revealed that the people negotiated with the terrorist and arrived at N30m penalty.
While many blame the federal government and its security forces for their inability to completely end the multidimensional insecurity scourge across the country, not many fully appreciate the bottlenecks.
The country has over 1,000 unmanned and porous borders from where weapons and fighters are smuggled into local communities.
There have also been reports of some foreigners and countries supplying weapons to terrorists in exchange for protection of their business interests, an act which negates all local and international laws.
Non-cooperation with security forces is another problem. The local communities have overpaid allegiance to the terrorists, served as informants and even shielded them from possible arrest by security forces. Their lack of cooperation with government forces, many believe, was also responsible for the lingering war.
Moreover, illegal gold mining activities by these bandits and their sponsors have also made insecurity fester.
As they fight over territories considered to be rich in gold or diamond, these criminals and their foreign partners understand that their activities will be monitored in an atmosphere of peace and brought to an end.
To address the scourge of terrorism, kidnapping and other violent extremism in the country, experts believe that the government will have to deploy both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches. The trust deficit between the people and the government has to be bridged so that the Nigerian people, especially those in border communities can take ownership of the process by policing what goes in and out.
For that to happen, the government has to make its presence felt in these villages: provide their most pressing needs and make them feel that they are a part of the country.
The government should also adequately equip security forces, and ensure they are well paid and their allowances provided to enable them to do their jobs effectively.
Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, acknowledged the efforts being made by the government to curb insecurity.
He noted that dilapidated facilities, faulty recruitment processes, in some instances, the absence of the required modern weapons among others should be addressed as soon as possible.
“Nigerian security agencies are finding it extremely difficult to carry out successful operations that will deal with the issues of bandits, kidnappers, terrorists and other security threats in the country.
“Mr President informed the nation that the government is winning the war against the terror. Many Nigerians would find it extremely difficult to agree with what he said, given the ongoing security challenges facing the country and the people.
“We are seeing how bandits, terrorists and other criminals are having their day for the first time in a very obvious and openly threatening that they can deal with the Nigerian security agencies.
“This, they use Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram and TikTok. With this type of openly challenging the security agencies and unleashing terror on the people, including kidnapping high profile Nigerians, children, and women; it is extremely difficult to convince Nigerians that the government is winning the war.
“As the government is making this pronouncement, the terrorist, bandits criminals have continued to unleash terror on Nigerians including killing and disarming the security agents, vandalising their facilities…
“As we recognise that the government is making efforts, we need to intensify our efforts and ensure that we eliminate corruption in the security sector.
“Because part of the challenges of not winning this security challenges is largely because of the corruption in the security sector, lack of cooperation, lack of absolute sharing of information, lack of consensus approach by all the security agencies to work as a team to defeat insecurity and also, the poor motivation of our security agencies, lack of proper welfare for them, is also accounting to this demoralisation that is going on.
“So, Mr President needs to also listen to Nigerians, and other sources beyond the report he’ll receive from the security or government agencies.
“It is important that the President makes an effort to establish a private think tank that’ll be giving him additional information from the real people, real community, real Nigerians on what they’re going through.
“This is the only way he can balance and make appropriate decisions. If he listens to the sweet talk of the people in government, he may not be able to know what is going on in the country security-wise.
“So, we urge Mr President to find a way of having a think tank that will give him reliable, accurate data and information on security and other governance performance.
“This is the only way President Tinubu will be able to access and know what even his officials and appointees are doing; whether they’re doing the right thing or not, but only giving him positive information without highlighting fundamental opticals and threats…So, I think the president should look beyond the information he gets from his appointees.”
