Insecurity In Nigeria: A Growing Threat To National Peace And Development

The issue of insecurity in Nigeria has become a source of sleepless nights for many citizens. Hardly a day passes without reports of kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, terrorism, or violent attacks in different parts of the country. The killing of senior military officers by bandits, the murder of community leaders and former local government chairmen, the abduction of schoolchildren, and the kidnapping of innocent citizens and their relatives have become disturbing realities. These incidents have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty across the nation.

Security is the primary responsibility of every government. As former United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, rightly stated, “We will not enjoy development without security, we will not enjoy security without development, and we will not enjoy either without respect for human rights.” Unfortunately, Nigeria continues to face significant security challenges that threaten national unity, economic growth, and social stability. One of the major causes of insecurity is the porous nature of Nigeria’s borders. The country shares extensive land borders with neighbouring countries, making it difficult to effectively monitor the movement of people and goods. This situation has enabled the infiltration of illegal immigrants, arms traffickers, and criminal elements into the country. Many security experts have repeatedly warned that weak border management contributes significantly to the proliferation of weapons and the activities of criminal groups.

Another contributing factor is politics. In some cases, political actors have been accused of sponsoring thugs and armed groups to achieve political objectives. These groups often become difficult to control after elections and eventually transform into criminal gangs that terrorise communities. The misuse of power and political patronage has weakened efforts to combat insecurity effectively. Corruption also remains a major obstacle to national security. Funds meant for security operations, infrastructure, and public welfare are sometimes diverted for personal enrichment. Corruption weakens institutions, reduces the effectiveness of security agencies, and deprives citizens of essential services. As former Nigerian anti-corruption advocate, Nuhu Ribadu, once observed, “Corruption is the greatest obstacle to development and national progress.” Today, corruption has moved beyond millions of naira; allegations involving billions of naira have become commonplace, with severe consequences for ordinary citizens.

Closely related to corruption is the growing menace of illegal solid mineral mining. Nigeria is richly endowed with mineral resources such as gold, lithium, tin, columbite, and gemstones. However, illegal mining activities in many parts of the country have become a serious security concern. Criminal networks often exploit mineral-rich areas, using the proceeds from illegal mining to finance their operations. In some communities, armed groups reportedly control mining sites, leading to violent conflicts, illegal arms possession, environmental destruction, and loss of government revenue. There are also concerns that the huge profits generated from illegal mining attract the interest and protection of influential individuals, thereby frustrating efforts to curb the practice. Consequently, resources that should contribute to national development are instead being used to fuel insecurity, corruption, and economic sabotage. The government must therefore strengthen regulation of the mining sector, prosecute offenders without fear or favour, and ensure that Nigeria’s mineral wealth benefits the nation rather than criminal elements.

Selfishness and lack of patriotism among some members of society further worsen the situation. Security is not solely the responsibility of government agencies; citizens also have an important role to play. Many criminal activities succeed because suspicious movements or behaviours are ignored. Community vigilance, neighbourhood watch initiatives, and timely reporting of suspicious activities to relevant authorities can significantly enhance security.

The popular saying, “If you see something, say something,” remains relevant in the fight against crime.

However, some state governments deserve commendation for adopting modern approaches to security management. States such as Enugu State and Edo State have invested in digital surveillance systems, command-and-control centres, and technology-driven security measures to improve monitoring and response capabilities. Such initiatives demonstrate that technology can be a powerful tool in combating crime and enhancing public safety. Similarly, the leadership of the police in the Federal Capital Territory has shown determination in confronting criminal elements. Security operations involving the clearing of forests and hideouts used by kidnappers and bandits have yielded positive results in several instances. Such proactive measures should be replicated across the country.

Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, once remarked that “No nation can develop beyond the level of its security.” This statement underscores the critical importance of addressing insecurity as a prerequisite for national development. Investors are reluctant to invest in unsafe environments, farmers abandon their farmlands due to fear of attacks, businesses suffer losses, and children are unable to learn effectively when schools are threatened by kidnappers. To effectively tackle insecurity, the Nigerian government must strengthen border security, improve intelligence gathering, equip security agencies with modern technology, punish corruption decisively, regulate the mining sector effectively, and promote community policing. Citizens must also embrace vigilance, patriotism, and cooperation with law enforcement agencies. Religious leaders, traditional rulers, community associations, and civil society organisations should work together to promote peace and discourage criminal activities. As the renowned American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.” The fight against insecurity requires collective responsibility, unity of purpose, and a commitment to the common good. No government can succeed alone without the cooperation and support of its citizens.

In conclusion, insecurity has become one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges. The loss of lives, destruction of property, disruption of economic activities, and illegal exploitation of the nation’s natural resources demand urgent and collective action. Government at all levels, security agencies, and citizens must work together to restore peace and security. A secure Nigeria is not only desirable but essential for sustainable development, national unity, and the prosperity of future generations.

Dr. Gidado Abdulkarim Salimon writes from No 1b Halal Street Daudu Islamic Village, Ilorin kwara state.

Contact Information: Email: abdulkarimgidado9@gmail.com