Addressing insecurity requires multifaceted approach

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

Former military head of State, His Excellency, Gen. Abdulsalami A. Abubakar said addressing insecurity in Northern Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach such as strengthening security forces, intelligence sharing, and community engagement.

The former head of State also said the security situation in Nigeria, and in particular Northern Nigeria, demands our collective attention, understanding, and strategic planning.

This is as he commended the CNG for taking the initiative in organising this roundtable in order to proffer solutions to the menace of insecurity that have bedevilled the nation and particularly Northern Nigeria

Former head of State stated this in his welcome remarks at the occasion of a Two-Day Roundtable on Insecurity in Northern Nigeria, organized by Coalition of Northern Group (CNG) in Abuja, yesterday, with a theme: “Multidimensional approach to tackling insecurity in Northern Nigeria.”

According to him, “We find ourselves at a critical juncture, and it is imperative that we engage in open and constructive dialogue to devise comprehensive approaches to tackle the multifaceted nature of these challenges.

“Additionally, investing in education and economic development can address the root causes, ultimately fostering long-term stability. Also, synergy among the security agencies, state, and federal authorities is key to effectively combating terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry.

“Our shared goal is to foster a secure environment that enables the prosperity and well-being of the people of the region. Therefore, let us use this platform to pool our knowledge, experiences, and insights, fostering collaboration among various stakeholders.

“Together, we can work towards a safer and more stable northern Nigeria, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come. This will have a ripple effect on other regions within the country; thereby transforming the security landscape for the greater good of the citizens of our dear nation.”

In his welcome remarks, the Chairman CNG’s committee expert on security, Bashir Yusuf Ibrahim, said “We are committed to building a sustainable framework for regional cooperation in the Northwest and the entire country.

Bashir noted that the level of insecurity has now mandated the need to have open discussions about innovative solutions to fight insecurity. We must take into account all stakeholders and absolutely immediately provide support and protection to the victims of insecurity.

“The regional approach requires targeted coordination towards socioeconomic development to reduce poverty and associated insecurity.To this end, the Northwest governors approached the African Development Bank to solicit investments in agriculture and power.

“We are now embarking on an inaugural Northwest Peace and Security Summit in partnership with UNDP to bring all stakeholders and our best minds together to find solutions to the ongoing insecurity in the region.”

Earlier, CNG National Coordinator ,Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, said there is need for decisive action to be emphasized, as speeches alone cannot secure the region.Accountability is crucial to the collective effort, and leaders are urged to act in order to protect innocent citizens.

“The roundtable is not just a meeting of dignitaries, but an opportunity for tangible change where actions speak louder than words.Urgent and tangible solutions are needed to safeguard the education of younger generations and prevent future conflict.

“The era of empty promises must come to an end, and actions will be the measure of success. Together, a journey fueled by compassion, solidarity, and collective determination can rewrite the narrative of Northern Nigeria and weave a tapestry of hope and opportunity.”

The Vice President, Kashim Shetima, represented by his Chief of Staff, Ibrahim Yusuf Adejia, said the initiative aligns with the resolve of the present administration to bring about lasting peace across the country.

He said providing security is one critical agenda of the government, hence the increase in budgetary allocation to security, assuring that there is a need to address the disinformation warfare being waged against the government.

Senator Shettima maintained that no region will be left unattended to, as evident in all the critical projects being carried out in all the geo-political zones of the country.

He acknowledged that no meaningful result can be achieved in a divided society and therefore called on all Nigerians to be more united to finding lasting solutions to the menace.

The Vice President assured that the present administration would continue to support security agencies in whatever capacity required to achieve lasting security.

Also speaking, the Director Publicity and Advocacy/Spokesperson, Northern Elders Forum (NEF), Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, commended the efforts of the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) for organizing a roundtable discussion aimed at finding practical solutions to the persistent insecurity in Northern Nigeria.

Suleiman emphasized the significance of bringing together critical stakeholders to address the security challenges that have plagued the region.

He acknowledged that this roundtable was the first of its kind, as it gathered influential and knowledgeable individuals from the North to discuss the dire security situation that has been causing immense suffering not only in the region but also across the entire nation.

He did not shy away from highlighting the severity of the security crisis, stating that it is one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria today.

NEF spokesperson expressed optimism that this initiative would serve as a crucial platform for achieving the long-awaited peace in the North. The roundtable discussion provided an opportunity for stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange ideas, and propose practical solutions to address the security concerns that have plagued the region for far too long.