By Gidado Ibrahim
President Bola Tinubu’s pledge in the “Renewed Hope” document to secure Nigeria and his subsequent actions have been met with both hope and concern. While some point to progress, others remain skeptical in the wake of fresh attacks like the Mangu attack and the recent upsurge of kidnappings in the nation’s capital, FCT.
Exploring Tinubu’s efforts so far and the remaining challenges provides a clearer picture of his approach to tackling insecurity. Tinubu outlined his security vision in “Renewed Hope,” stressing the mobilization of national security assets, technology improvement, personnel recruitment, and strengthening existing agencies.
He cited his success in combating crime while he was Lagos governor as a model for the nation. Notably, he recently approved emergency procurement of digital tracking devices to locate kidnappers in Abuja, acknowledging the lack of existing equipment.
Initial steps like tackling Boko Haram’s territorial claims and facilitating displaced persons’ return are credited to the previous administration, laying the groundwork for further action. However, the Mangu attack and ongoing criminal activities like kidnappings raise questions about the effectiveness of current strategies. The lack of proper equipment for security agencies, as acknowledged by President Tinubu, highlights a crucial area needing immediate attention. Good enough, the FCT has acknowledged the president’s directive to purchase hi-tech tracking equipment. That is a major step in the right direction.
The pall of insecurity casts a long shadow over Nigeria, stretching from the bustling streets of Abuja to the serene hills of Plateau and other states like Katsina, Niger, Nasarawa and Zamfara. Despite President Tinubu’s recent efforts to quell the flames, the past few weeks have witnessed a worrying escalation, culminating in the desperate imposition of a 24-hour curfew on the Plateau. While fingers of blame readily point towards fifth columnists and political machinations, the reality is far more intricate, a Gordian knot woven from economic woes, social fissures and the dark tendrils of criminal networks.
At the heart of the insecurity lies a potent cocktail of economic and social issues. Widespread poverty, fueled by decades of mismanagement and dwindling resource distribution, has fostered desperation, breeding grounds for criminal activities. Youth unemployment soars, leaving young minds vulnerable to the siren song of quick financial gains through violent means. Inequality reigns supreme, breeding resentment and stoking the flames of ethnic and religious tension.
Access to quality education remains a distant dream for many, perpetuating cycles of ignorance and fueling the flames of intolerance. The cracks in the social fabric exacerbated by historical grievances and a palpable sense of disenfranchisement amongst various communities run deep. This combustible mix creates a fertile ground for exploitation by vested interests, both internal and external.
Amidst this societal disarray, criminal syndicates weave their clandestine webs. Armed with ill-gotten wealth, often pilfered from the public purse, these shadowy figures greaze the wheels of violence. Their vast networks, stretching across the porous borders of the ECOWAS region and linked to international criminal organizations, facilitate the flow of illegal weapons, finance terrorism, and orchestrate criminal enterprises that bleed the nation dry.
The illicit proceeds from these nefarious activities fuel further instability. Kidnapping for ransom has become a lucrative industry, targeting not just the wealthy but ordinary citizens caught in the crossfire. Resource theft, whether it be crude oil in the Niger Delta or minerals in the North, enriches criminals while impoverishing the nation. The cycle perpetuates a self-serving ecosystem that thrives on chaos and despair.
But there are certain steps that the country’s security aparachi overseen by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, must take. While the immediate focus understandably falls on curbing the overt violence, the battle against insecurity demands a holistic approach. Addressing the root causes is crucial. Tackling poverty requires not just handouts but investment in education, infrastructure, and sustainable economic development.
Bridging the inequality gap will necessitate equitable resource distribution and dismantling the systems that perpetuate privilege for the few. Fostering social cohesion demands open dialogue, reconciliation efforts and addressing historical injustices.
The NSA must understand that disrupting the criminal networks is equally vital. This is where President Tinubu’s position as chairman of heads of state of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) comes into play. Robust border security, increased transparency in financial transactions, and effective law enforcement with zero tolerance for corruption are essential first steps.
Cracking down on illegal trade in weapons and resources and dismantling financial havens that launder ill-gotten gains must be prioritized. International cooperation is key, requiring robust intelligence sharing and coordinated efforts to counter cross-border criminality.
Beyond these broad strokes, the path forward demands nuanced understanding of the local context. Plateau State’s herder-farmer clashes require specific solutions tailored to the region’s unique dynamics. The insurgency in the North-east necessitates a complex counter-terrorism strategy that addresses ideological motivations, while providing alternative pathways for disaffected youth.
The task ahead is undoubtedly daunting – a marathon requiring resilience and unwavering commitment. Yet, within the depth of despair, flickers of hope remain. The resilience of the Nigerian people, their unwavering spirit in the face of adversity, offers a powerful foundation for change. Civil society organizations are already working tirelessly to bridge divides and empower communities. A vibrant, vocal media landscape shines a light on injustices and demands accountability.
President Tinubu’s recent vow to “conquer the evil of insecurity” might face skepticism, but the seeds of change have been sown. Recognizing the complex tapestry of economic, social, and criminal elements at play is the first step. Investing in solutions that address the root causes, dismantling criminal networks, and empowering communities are the threads needed to weave a safer future for Nigeria. This is not just a battle for peace and security; it is a fight for the soul of a nation, a fight that demands commitment from every citizen, every leader, and every stakeholder. Only then can Nigeria break free from the web of insecurity and claim its rightful place as a prosperous and peaceful nation.
While the Mangu attack serves as a stark reminder of the distance to travel, Tinubu’s proactive approach, his emphasis on technology, and his willingness to acknowledge shortcomings offer cautious optimism.
NSA Ribadu must note that measuring success will require not just a decline in major attacks but also a sustained reduction in criminal activity, enhanced security for ordinary citizens, and a tangible improvement in the overall sense of safety across the nation.
It is high time the renewed hope administration exposed the involvement of top military brass and political mafias within the insiders’ circle of terrorism financing before they change techniques and device fresh means of causing social unrest. These syndicates which have extensive network in the country are associated with international criminal network that facilitate successful transaction in financing terrorism and other crimes against peace of the nation.
Oil theft is another source of financing terrorism and must be curbed at all cost. The National Security Adviser should detect the whereabouts of these criminals, including illegal smugglers of petroleum products through our borders to neighbouring countries. He can achieve this by summoning an emergency meeting with heads of African Intelligence chiefs, including African Heads of anty corruption agencies to come up with a blueprint on shared intelligence in tackling the situation head on.
Also, an investigation into the release of public funds for the purchase of security equipment over the years without positive result like the arms gate under the Goodluck Jonathan administration should also be revisited, with a view to subjecting the culprits to prosecution to avoid future damages is critical under the renewed hope administration. This will serve as deterrent now that President Tinubu is in charge and is showing the political will as demonstrated by his actions.
Ultimately, tackling Nigeria’s complex security challenges demands continued commitment, unwavering resolve, and a willingness to adapt and innovate. Whether Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” translates into lasting security will depend on his ability to address not just the symptoms but also the deep-rooted causes of the nation’s vulnerabilities.