Northern Coalition Group (NCG) wants the Tinubu led administration to harness multi dimensional approaches towards tackling banditry, kidnapping, insurgency, farmer-herder conflicts and other forms of insecurity ravaging the region and other parts of the country.
The group made the demand tuesday in Abuja at the opening of a two day programme “multi dimensional approach to tackling insecurity in Northern Nigeria” designed to brainstorm on strategies towards ending insecurity in the region.
The event which had the attendance of diverse groups of critical stakeholders: governors, security experts, religious leaders, academics and members of civil society organisations availed the opportunity for shared experiences and fresh ideas.
Former military head of state, Rtd Gen. Abdulsallam Abubakar emphasized that addressing insecurity in Northern Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach involving synergy among the security agencies, state and federal authorities strengthening security forces, intelligence sharing and community engagement.
He said that investing in education and economic development can address the root causes, ultimately fostering long term stabiliy that will have a ripple effect on other regions within the country; thereby transforming the security landscape for the greater good of the citizens.
Governor of Gombe state and chairman, northern governor’s forum Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya stressed that tackling insecurity in the region must embrace addressing its root causes in order to find sustainable solutions.
He said that the nature and complexities of those challenges necessitate a multidimensional approach that goes beyond traditional measures. As the wise saying goes: “we cannot keep repeating the same thing and expect a different result
He profered a four- D-approach: Development, Defence, Dialogue, Diplomacy- for adequate provision of sustainable development, a collaborative and well equipped defence system, dialogue for unity of purpose and effective use of diplomatic ties with neighbouring countries to track importation of arms and drugs into the country.
Similarly, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar harped on execution of ideas, plans and policies for the effective eradication of insecurity in the region.
He also urged relevant stakeholders to invest in agriculture and other development efforts that will improve on the livelihood of citizens.
The vice president, Senator Kashim Shettima who was represented by his deputy chief of staff, Ibrahim Hadejia pledged government’s commitment to efforts towards eradicating insecurity.
