Rethinking beyond military force
A critical shift in Nigeria's security strategy is gaining traction, as leaders and security experts argue that military force alone cannot defeat the country's growing threat of violent extremism.
At a recent summit in Kaduna, stakeholders highlighted the urgent need to address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, inequality, and governance failures, particularly in the North-West.
"We must address the root causes of violent extremism—poverty, inequality, exclusion, poor governance, and lack of opportunities," he stated.
The governor warned that if left unchecked, violent extremism, manifesting as terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings, has the potential to destabilize the nation.
Above the battlefield:
Speaking at a summit on preventing and countering violent extremism, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani underscored that while a military response is necessary, it is not sufficient. Represented by his Commissioner for Internal Security, Dr. Sule Shuaibu, Governor Sani emphasized that the true solution lies in a holistic and coordinated approach.
Speaking at a summit on preventing and countering violent extremism, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani underscored that while a military response is necessary, it is not sufficient. Represented by his Commissioner for Internal Security, Dr. Sule Shuaibu, Governor Sani emphasized that the true solution lies in a holistic and coordinated approach.
"We must address the root causes of violent extremism—poverty, inequality, exclusion, poor governance, and lack of opportunities," he stated.
The governor warned that if left unchecked, violent extremism, manifesting as terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings, has the potential to destabilize the nation.
He stressed that trust, inclusivity, justice, and respect for human rights must be central to any long-term solution.
He also highlighted his administration's focus on human capital development, community-based conflict resolution, and youth empowerment as part of this broader strategy.
Inclusive approach:
The summit, organized by the PCVE Knowledge, Innovation and Resource Hub (KIRH) and the PAVE Network in collaboration with the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), serves as a platform to create a regional blueprint for action.
Major-General Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the NCTC, reiterated that preventing violent extremism requires an inclusive, community-led, and intelligence-driven regional strategy.
Inclusive approach:
The summit, organized by the PCVE Knowledge, Innovation and Resource Hub (KIRH) and the PAVE Network in collaboration with the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), serves as a platform to create a regional blueprint for action.
Major-General Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the NCTC, reiterated that preventing violent extremism requires an inclusive, community-led, and intelligence-driven regional strategy.
He noted that factors such as porous borders, weak governance, and climate-induced conflicts are worsening the security crisis.
The NCTC is actively working with networks like the Partnership Against Violent Extremism (PAVE) to promote social cohesion and sustainable livelihoods, making communities less vulnerable to extremist recruitment.
Role of local governance:
Adding to this perspective, Jaiye Gaskiya, Chairman of the PAVE Steering Committee, emphasized the critical role of local governance.
Role of local governance:
Adding to this perspective, Jaiye Gaskiya, Chairman of the PAVE Steering Committee, emphasized the critical role of local governance.
He argued that Nigeria cannot win the fight against extremism without empowering local governments and restoring their autonomy.
"Without effective, functional, and autonomous local governments, we will never be able to address these challenges," Gaskiya said, calling for constitutional reforms to strengthen grassroots governance as a foundation for sustainable peace.
This unified message from state and federal leaders, along with civil society partners, signals a growing consensus that a multi-faceted approach is the only way to build lasting peace and security in Nigeria.
"Without effective, functional, and autonomous local governments, we will never be able to address these challenges," Gaskiya said, calling for constitutional reforms to strengthen grassroots governance as a foundation for sustainable peace.
This unified message from state and federal leaders, along with civil society partners, signals a growing consensus that a multi-faceted approach is the only way to build lasting peace and security in Nigeria.
No comments:
Post a Comment