The Federal Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture through collaborative and community-driven approaches. This commitment was restated during a high-level roundtable organized by the Irregular Warfare Centre, held at the National Defence College, Abuja.
The dialogue brought together top government officials, military leaders, security experts, and the media to explore sustainable solutions to the country’s complex security challenges.
Senate President Reaffirms Legislative Support
The President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly, Senator Godswill Akpabio, was represented at the event by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua. In his welcome address, Senator Yar’Adua conveyed the National Assembly’s deep appreciation for the work being carried out by the Irregular Warfare Centre.
He praised the initiative as timely and courageous, especially for its engagement with communities and efforts to understand the broader impact of conflict beyond the battlefield.
“We have gone beyond the barracks and battlefields to listen to communities and study the ripple effects of conflict. This gathering is a strategic step toward national growth, security, and development,” he stated.
Senator Yar’Adua pledged the National Assembly’s continued partnership with the armed forces, extending support beyond combat operations to include training, intelligence, and innovation.
“The military must be seen not as a force of fear but as a symbol of honor and national pride. We must deepen professionalism, discipline, and respect for human dignity,” he added.
He concluded by honoring the memory of fallen heroes, urging that the roundtable’s recommendations translate into actionable policies and long-term collaboration.
Defence Minister Advocates National Approach to Security
Also addressing the gathering, the Minister of Defence, His Excellency Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, was represented by Major-General Jibril Rissa. He emphasized that Nigeria’s security challenges demand more than military solutions.
“Insecurity must not be tackled through military efforts alone. Civil society, community involvement, inter-agency coordination, and international cooperation are critical,” he noted.
General Rissa identified poverty, inequality, and unemployment as root causes of insecurity, advocating for community-driven initiatives like education, neighborhood watch programs, and local policing.
“If we continue to see security as solely the responsibility of the military and police, we will not succeed. Every citizen has a role to play,” he stressed.
National Defence College Presents Key Research Findings
Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, Commandant of the National Defense College, presented findings from recent research on joint task force operations conducted in February 2025. The study covered all six geopolitical zones and was coordinated through the newly established Warfare Center under the National Defense Policy.
“The research aimed to evaluate the socio-economic and political impact of joint task forces and contribute to evidence-based strategies for national security,” Olotu explained.
He emphasized that the findings were developed through fieldwork and stakeholder engagement, and are intended to inform strategic decisions in shaping effective and sustainable security frameworks.
Goodwill Message from the Chief of Defence Staff
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, Rear Admiral A.D. Bingel underscored the importance of collective responsibility in national defense.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to defending the sovereignty of our nation, but we recognize that victory in today’s complex security environment requires unity of purpose,” he said.
He commended the Irregular Warfare Centre for spearheading such a vital conversation and urged all stakeholders to adopt the outcomes of the roundtable as a blueprint for national peace and resilience.
“Let us transform our shared vision into shared action—across government, military, communities, and civil society. Together, we can build a Nigeria where peace is permanent and security is for all,” he concluded.
