By: Ahmed Rufa’i
The Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Security has concluded a national security summit convened in the wake of rising incidents of student abductions across parts of the North-West and North-Central regions.
The summit, organised by the Nigerian Senate in collaboration with the Lagos State Government, drew participants from across the South-West geopolitical zone. It brought together security agencies, traditional rulers, policy experts, community leaders, and representatives of civil society to deliberate on current threats and sustainable solutions.
Truths Finder gathered that the forum provided a robust platform for stakeholders to share perspectives on evolving security trends and strengthen inter-agency cooperation.
Participants highlighted the importance of community engagement, intelligence sharing, and improved operational capacity for security formations.
A senator who attended the meeting, but preferred not to be named, described the deliberations as “frank, engaging, and solution-driven,” reflecting what he called a shared resolve to improve safety nationwide.
According to him, “I am proud of the level of cooperation and seriousness displayed throughout the summit.”He commended all participants for their commitment, noting that collective action remains crucial in efforts to safeguard Nigerians.
“All hands need to be on deck to continue building a safer and more secure Nigeria for all,” he added.In recent years, Nigeria has faced diverse security challenges ranging from banditry and kidnapping to communal clashes and urban crime.
Analysts say these issues are driven by a mix of factors including weak local security structures, economic pressures, porous borders, and inadequate community-based intelligence.
While efforts have been made at federal and state levels to address these threats, the situation continues to demand a more coordinated and technology-driven response.Stakeholders at the summit reiterated the need for sustained government investment in modern security equipment, improved welfare for personnel, and stronger collaboration between security agencies and communities.
They stressed that lasting peace can only be achieved when government institutions, traditional authorities, and citizens work together to prevent crime, resolve conflicts peacefully, and build trust.
The summit’s recommendations are expected to guide the Senate’s next line of legislative action aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture without compromising civil liberties or the rule of law.
