In a pressing call for national action, Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has spotlighted the country’s porous borders as a critical vulnerability exacerbating the security situation. During the 15th Founder’s Day celebration of the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN), Gowon voiced his concerns over the rising tide of banditry, kidnappings, and violence plaguing the nation.
Gowon pointed out the urgent need for bolstered border security to fend off external threats and prevent the incursion of criminals from neighboring countries. He described the North West to North East border stretch as particularly vulnerable, suggesting that the solution lies in a combination of enhanced surveillance and increased security personnel deployment to safeguard these expansive and vulnerable zones.
The former leader also called on President Bola Tinubu to adopt a proactive stance by convening a strategic meeting with security agencies, community leaders, and religious figures. Gowon believes that a collaborative approach is crucial for brainstorming and implementing effective strategies to combat the security crisis. He underscored the imperative for immediate action, stating, “Nigerians cannot continue to die like this.”
In his plea for national solidarity, Gowon encouraged citizens to support the military and law enforcement’s efforts by providing vital information that could aid in the battle against insecurity. He highlighted the importance of community participation in the intelligence-gathering process as a fundamental pillar in the fight against these security threats.
Furthermore, Gowon advocated for the employment of non-kinetic strategies, referencing the Reconciliation, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction (3Rs) initiative he championed post-civil war in 1970, as a blueprint for healing and national unity.
Echoing Gowon’s sentiments, Pastor Samuel Sanusi, General Secretary of the BSN, drew attention to the underlying issues of poverty and social injustice fueling insecurity. Sanusi called for a collective effort from all Nigerians, not just the government, to address these root causes effectively. He emphasized that achieving peace is the foundation for national progress and prosperity, a goal that transcends political, tribal, or religious affiliations.
This discourse highlights a critical juncture in Nigeria’s quest for stability and peace, underscoring the need for comprehensive and inclusive strategies to address both the symptoms and root causes of insecurity across the nation.
