Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) led by former Head of State, General Abdulsalam Abubakar has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration on the need to adopt multi-dimensional approach to end the insecurity ravaging the country.
General Abubakar who gave the charge at the Two-Day Roundtable on insecurity in Northern Nigeria, with the theme: ‘Multidimensional approach to tackling insecurity in Northern Nigeria,’ observed that it’s more urgent than ever before for all Nigerians to unite to tackle insecurity in the country, particularly in the North East.
He said: “We find ourselves at a critical juncture, and it is imperative that we engage in open and constructive dialogue to devise comprehensive approaches to tackle the multifaceted nature of these challenges.
“Additionally, investing in education and economic development can address the root causes, ultimately fostering long-term stability. Also, synergy among the security agencies, state and federal authorities is key to effectively combating terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry.
“Our shared goal is to foster a secured environment that enables the prosperity and well-being of the people of the region. Therefore, let us use this platform to pool our knowledge, experiences, and insights, fostering collaboration among various stakeholders.
“Together, we can work towards a safer and more stable northern Nigeria, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come. This will have a ripple effect on other regions within the country; thereby transforming the security landscape for the greater good of the citizens of our dear nation”.
He, however, commended the Security Agencies for their efforts in tackling insecurity across the country and encouraged them to redouble their efforts towards achieving a safer Nigeria.
On his part, Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima who commended the Organisers of the Roundtable meeting, observed that the initiative aligned with the resolve of the present administration to bring about lasting peace across the country.
He said providing security is one critical agenda of the government, hence the increase in budgetary allocation to security, assuring that there is a need to address the disinformation warfare being waged against the government.
The Vice President maintained that no region will be left unattended to, as evident in all the critical projects being carried out in all the geo-political zones of the country.
He acknowledged that no meaningful result can be achieved in a divided society and therefore called on all Nigerians to be more united to finding lasting solutions to the menace.
Senator Shettima also assured that the present administration would continue to support security agencies in whatever capacity required to achieve lasting security.
Speaking earlier, the CNG National Coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, said: “There is a need for decisive action to be emphasized, as speeches alone cannot secure the region. Accountability is crucial to the collective effort, and leaders are urged to act in order to protect innocent citizens.
“The roundtable is not just a meeting of dignitaries, but an opportunity for tangible change where actions speak louder than words.Urgent and tangible solutions are needed to safeguard the education of younger generations and prevent future conflict.
“The era of empty promises must come to an end, and actions will be the measure of success. Together, a journey fueled by compassion, solidarity, and collective determination can rewrite the narrative of Northern Nigeria and weave a tapestry of hope and opportunity”.
In his remarks, former Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Attahiru Jega, who argued that insecurity has been allowed to fester too long, decried the expansion of the activities of the insurgents across the country.
Professor Jega said it is now important to start adopting a multi-dimensional approach to tackling insecurity and urged Nigeria to adopt an inclusive process for tackling the menace, with the government taking a very responsive role devoid of politics.
He maintained that to have effective control over the war, there must be targeted efforts toward reaching all communities, underscoring the need to also promote unity and professionalism amongst all the security agencies.
In his remarks, Chairman of CNG’s Committee Expert on Security, Bashir Yusuf Ibrahim observed that: “The regional approach requires targeted coordination towards socio-economic development to reduce poverty and associated insecurity.
“To this end, the North West Governors approached the African Development Bank to solicit investments in agriculture and power.
“We are now embarking on an inaugural Northwest Peace and Security Summit in partnership with UNDP to bring all stakeholders and our best minds together to find solutions to the ongoing insecurity in the region.”
