Speaker calls for non-kineric strategies to combat escalating insecurity
By Tom Okpe
To combat escalating insecurity in the country, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep Tajudeen Abbas has called for a shift, towards non-kinetic strategies in the fight that has become a menace to all.
Abbas made this known in an event held at Abuja on Monday, which focused on the need for alternative, non-military approaches in addressing terrorism, banditry, and other forms of violence, plaguing the country.
He stressed the importance of diplomatic dialogue, economic empowerment, psychological interventions, and community based initiatives as vital components of a sustainable security framework, citing examples from some African countries like Rwanda and Kenya, where non-kinetic strategies have significantly, reduced the appeal of extremist ideologies, fostering reconciliation.
He revealed that in 2024, N3.25 trillion, or 12% of the national budget, had been allocated to defence and security, acknowledging the necessity of military action, he emphasized that a more cost-effective and sustainable approach would be to invest in critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure areas that address the root causes of insecurity.
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He said: “Successful non-kinetic measures in Nigeria, such as the Operation Safe Corridor program, which focuses on the deradicalization and rehabilitation of former insurgents, is proof that alternative strategies can work.”
The Speaker further highlighted the importance of community policing, made possible by the Police Act of 2020, as key element in bridging the gap between law enforcement and local communities.
“This approach builds trust and empowers citizens to actively, safeguard their neighborhoods.
“The formation of a new Standing Committee on Peacebuilding and Social Cohesion within the House of Representatives will develop policies to promote peace and stability, marking first, such initiative in Nigeria and potentially in Africa.”
The workshop, organized in collaboration with the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, KAS, brought together members of the security sector, intelligence agencies, and other key stakeholders to discuss non-kinetic security strategies.
“I am committed to seeking innovative solutions that will not only address immediate security threats, but also, focus on the long term causes of insecurity in Nigeria,” he said.
Also speaking in her opening remarks, Marija Peran, Resident Representative of Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, KAS, commended the Speaker, Rep Abbas, for his leadership and initiative in organizing the workshop.
“It was also Mr Speaker personally, who initiated this very important event, and KAS is grateful that we can partner on this, once more.
“Non-kinetic approaches, which focus on addressing root causes of conflict and fostering sustainable peace, are essential for creating a secure and stable Nigeria.
“Promoting economic opportunities, particularly in vulnerable regions, alternatives to violence can be provided, and the appeal of terrorist groups reduced. This includes investments in infrastructure, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and job creation, particularly for women and youth.
Education also emerged as a key component of the non-kinetic strategy. Peran noted that an educated population is less likely to be swayed by extremist ideologies, and called for improved access to quality education, especially in conflict-prone areas.
“This includes not only formal education, but also vocational training and civic education that promotes tolerance and understanding.”
Peran also, underscored the pivotal role the legislature plays in advancing non-kinetic approaches, noting that legislators are responsible for shaping policies, allocating resources, and holding the executive accountable.
“The legislature has a crucial role to play in this endeavor, and it is a collective responsibility to ensure that these strategies are prioritized and effectively, implemented,” she added.
