Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has asserted that military might alone is insufficient to tackle Nigeria’s escalating security challenges.
The event, organized in collaboration with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), provided a platform for the Speaker to outline a multifaceted strategy aimed at addressing the root causes of insecurity.
"Military operations have been a significant part of our response, but they cannot be the sole solution," Abbas stated, highlighting the N3.25 trillion allocated to defense and security in the 2024 national budget.
He emphasized the necessity of integrating non-kinetic strategies such as diplomatic dialogue, economic empowerment, psychological interventions, and community-based initiatives into the national security framework.
Abbas shown the importance of addressing underlying issues through investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. "We must invest in our people and communities to build a foundation for lasting peace," he remarked.
The Speaker also pointed to the Police Act of 2020, advocating for community policing as a means to foster trust between law enforcement and local communities.
In a significant move towards institutionalizing peace efforts, Abbas announced the formation of a Standing Committee on Peacebuilding and Social Cohesion within the House of Representatives. "This committee, the first of its kind in Nigeria and possibly Africa, will focus on policies that promote peace and stability," he declared.
The workshop concluded with a call to action for stakeholders across various sectors to collaborate in creating sustainable solutions to Nigeria's security challenges.
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