As insecurity continues to cast a dark shadow over Nigeria’s unity and economic growth, experts are calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive and coordinated action to halt the nation’s descent into fear and fragility.
According to security and governance analyst Dr. Taiwo O. Olubanwo, Nigeria’s current situation represents more than a domestic challenge — it’s a crisis with global implications. “The world is watching Nigeria,” he said. “Our stability affects West Africa’s peace, global energy markets, and migration trends. The time to act decisively is now.”
A Nation on Edge
From insurgency and banditry in the North to kidnappings and militancy in the South, insecurity has crippled livelihoods and forced millions from their homes. The World Food Programme (WFP) warns that over 33 million Nigerians could face acute food insecurity by the end of 2025, while the World Bank reports that 139 million citizens — more than half the population — could be living in extreme poverty if current trends persist.
Research shows that insecurity has significantly slowed economic growth. A 2025 study revealed that a 1% rise in insecurity leads to a 0.21% drop in crop production and a 0.31% decline in livestock output, underscoring the close link between violence and economic stagnation.
Government Efforts and Persistent Gaps
The Tinubu administration has continued military operations against insurgents and promoted community policing initiatives to strengthen local security. However, experts say much more is needed to address corruption, weak coordination among security agencies, and the socioeconomic roots of violence.
“Security is not just about firepower — it’s about governance, trust, and fairness,” Dr. Olubanwo noted. “A strategy that ignores poverty, unemployment, and ethnic division will only fight symptoms, not the cause.”
The Way Forward
Experts have outlined clear steps the Tinubu government must prioritise to break the cycle of insecurity:
1. Security Sector Reform: Modernise intelligence operations, strengthen inter-agency collaboration, and ensure proper oversight of defence spending.
2. Tackle Corruption Head-On: Hold officials accountable and promote transparency within security institutions.
3. Empower the Youth: Expand job creation, vocational training, and entrepreneurship to reduce crime and extremism recruitment.
4. Promote Unity and Trust: Bridge ethnic and religious divides through inclusive leadership and community engagement.
5. Strengthen International Partnerships: Work closely with the U.S., UN, and African Union to share intelligence, support peacebuilding, and attract development investment.
A Defining Moment for Leadership
Dr. Olubanwo insists that the solution lies in visionary leadership and national unity. “Nigeria’s greatest challenge is not lack of resources but lack of coordination and commitment,” he said. “We need a government that sees security not just as a military campaign, but as a social contract.”
As global partners continue to extend aid and support, analysts warn that external help alone cannot save Nigeria. The country’s path to peace and prosperity depends on its ability to confront corruption, invest in its people, and restore faith in public institutions.
“This is a defining moment for President Tinubu,” Dr. Olubanwo concluded. “Nigeria stands at a crossroads — and the choices made today will shape its destiny for generations to come.”
