The former Chief of Defence Staff, General Martin Luther Agwai has called for a collaborative approach to address the pressing issue of insecurity in Nigeria and Africa at large.
Agwai made the call while speaking to newsmen at the sideline of the 18th Annual International Conference and General Assembly of the Society for Peace Studies and Practice (SPSP) held at the Nigerian Defence Academy, (NDA) in Kaduna.
The conference, themed “Community Engagement: Networking Kinetic and Non-Kinetic Capabilities for Tackling Insecurity in Africa”, was in collaboration with the NDA.
General Agwai also emphasized the need for community engagement in tackling insecurity.
According to the former Defence Chief insecurity is a complex phenomenon driven by various factors, including poverty, unemployment, political instability, and social inequality.
He added that the drivers of insecurity were often interconnected and required a comprehensive approach to address as he stressed that community engagement is critical in preventing and resolving conflicts, as it enables the identification and addressing of underlying causes of insecurity.
Agwai urged governments, civil society organizations, and individuals to work together to build trust and promote peace.
The former CDS also highlighted the importance of kinetic and non-kinetic capabilities in addressing insecurity, noting that sole reliance on military force is insufficient.
He emphasized the need for a holistic approach that incorporates education, economic development, and social welfare.
Agwai underscored the importance of community engagement and collective efforts in addressing the complex issue of insecurity.
“As stakeholders work together, there is hope for a more peaceful and secure Nigeria”, he stressed.
Earlier in a welcome address, the President of the SPSP, Mr Nathaniel Awuapila said the conference provides a unique platform for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to converge and share ideas on the critical issue of insecurity in Nigeria.
Awuapila said it was imperative that stakeholders come together to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in addressing the challenges.
He expressed gratitude to their partners, the NDA for their support and collaboration in organising the conference.
Also, the Commandant of the NDA, Major General John Ochai disclosed that, as a premier military institution, they recognised the significance of non-kinetic approaches in addressing the complex security challenges facing the country.
Ochai, represented by his deputy, AVM Sunday Aneke said they were committed to supporting initiatives that promote peace and security in Nigeria, adding that the conference would contribute significantly to that effort.
“I urge you all to engage robustly in the discussions and share your expertise and experiences. Together, we can develop innovative solutions to the security challenges facing our country. Let us work together to build a more peaceful and secure nation and continent.”
Also, the SPSP Board of Trustees, Chairman, Prof. Sulaiman Bogoro explained that, “As I reflect on the journey of the society, I am filled with a sense of pride and purpose. From humble beginnings to becoming a leading voice in peace and security discourse in Nigeria.”
He added that the organization has come a long way, where they have consistently provided a platform for stakeholders to engage, share knowledge and proffer solutions to the nation’s and continent’s security challenges.
“As we gather for our conference and general assembly, I am reminded of the power of collective action in addressing insecurity. Our theme, “Community Engagement: Networking Kinetic and Non-Kinetic Capabilities for Tackling Insecurity in Africa,” resonates deeply with our mission.”
Giving a remark, the special guest of honor, the Governor of Borno state, Babagana Zulum, commended the SPSP for their tireless efforts in promoting peace and security in Nigeria.
Zulum, represented by the Borno state Commissioner of Internal Security and Information, Usman Ta explained that as a Governor of a state that has been at the forefront of the Boko Haram insurgency, he understood the devastating effects of insecurity and the importance of collective action in addressing the challenge.
He stated that in Borno State, they have learned that insecurity is not solely a military problem, but also a socio-economic and political one.
Zulum said they have implemented various initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of education.
“Our experiences have shown that community engagement and participation are critical in preventing and resolving conflicts,” he said.
He restated his administration’s commitment to prioritizing community engagement, education, and economic development in efforts to tackle insecurity.
The Governor therefore urged all stakeholders to continue working together to find sustainable solutions to the nation’s security challenges.
