Nigeria’s Security Challenges: The True Blame Lies in Leadership, Not the Armed Forces
In recent years, Nigeria has faced escalating insecurity, with terrorism, banditry, and insurgency wreaking havoc across the nation. Many Nigerians have placed the blame squarely on the shoulders of the country’s security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Armed Forces. However, this criticism is misplaced. The root cause of Nigeria’s ongoing security crisis is not the alleged inefficiency of our military but rather the failure of our leadership to fully empower and support them.
There is no doubt that the Nigerian soldiers are among the most hardworking, intelligent, and courageous in the world. Our military personnel undergo rigorous training, both at home and abroad, gaining technical skills and experience that equip them to handle a wide range of security challenges. They have proven their capabilities in various peacekeeping missions across Africa and beyond, demonstrating professionalism and effectiveness in highly volatile environments.
Moreover, the Nigerian military is well-equipped to combat terrorism and insurgency. Over the years, significant investments have been made in acquiring modern weapons, equipment, and technology to bolster the military’s operational capacity. From sophisticated intelligence-gathering tools to advanced weaponry, the Nigerian Armed Forces have the resources necessary to defeat terrorists and restore peace across the country.
Despite the military’s readiness and capability, the insecurity in Nigeria persists. This can be attributed to one key factor: leadership. Under the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian government has failed to provide the necessary directives and support to the military to decisively end the threat posed by terrorists and bandits.
Recent reports and viral videos have surfaced, showing Nigerian soldiers expressing their frustration at the inability to fully engage and defeat these criminal elements. The blame, according to these soldiers, lies not with their lack of ability or resources but with the absence of clear orders from the country’s leadership. As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Tinubu bears the ultimate responsibility for Nigeria’s security. Yet, the government, including the Nigerian Senate, has hesitated to give the military the green light to act decisively.
Nigeria’s security apparatus is not limited to the military. The Department of State Services (DSS) is a highly capable intelligence agency, known for its expertise in information gathering and counterintelligence operations. The DSS has the capacity to identify and neutralize threats before they escalate, but it requires the full backing of the government to operate effectively.
Similarly, the Nigerian Police Force, despite its challenges, has been working tirelessly to maintain law and order. However, the police are hampered by a lack of modern equipment, transportation, and communication systems. Without the necessary tools, their efforts to combat crime and insecurity are severely limited.
Another glaring issue is the government’s failure to leverage technology to combat insecurity. Terrorists and bandits in Nigeria often use registered mobile phones and social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter to coordinate their activities. Yet, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and other relevant bodies have not taken adequate steps to monitor and block these communications.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Science and Technology could play a pivotal role in developing homegrown technological solutions to support security agencies. Unfortunately, this potential remains untapped, as the government has not prioritized the integration of technology in the fight against insecurity.
It is high time that Nigerians redirected their frustration from the security agencies to where it truly belongs—our leadership. President Tinubu, alongside the Nigerian Senate, must take decisive action to end the reign of terror in the country. This involves providing the military and other security agencies with the full support they need, including clear directives, modern equipment, and the freedom to operate without political interference.
Nigerian leaders must also prioritize the use of technology in security operations, ensuring that agencies like the NCC, the Ministry of Science and Technology, and the DSS are empowered to monitor and disrupt the communication networks used by terrorists and criminals.
Nigeria’s security agencies, including the military, police, and intelligence services, have the capability and the will to defeat terrorism and restore peace. However, their efforts are being undermined by a lack of leadership and political will. It is up to President Tinubu and the Nigerian Senate to rise to the occasion and provide the necessary support to bring an end to the insecurity plaguing our nation. Only then can Nigeria move towards a safer and more secure future.
Hon. Bala Salihu Dawakin kudu.
Director General.
Progressive amalgamations of Northern Nigeria.
Phone 🤳 08060017934
