South-West Leaders and Senate Unite on Security Overhaul
In a decisive move to confront escalating security challenges, the Nigerian Senate orchestrated the South-West Zonal Security Summit in Lagos on Friday, November 22, 2025. The high-level gathering brought together federal lawmakers, security chiefs, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, and religious leaders to champion indigenous solutions, modern technology, and the establishment of state police as critical remedies.
A Call for Shared Responsibility and Proactive Measures
Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, the Chairman of the South-West interactive hearings for the 10th Senate’s Ad-hoc Committee on the National Security Summit, set the tone by emphasizing that security is a shared responsibility. Representing Lagos East, Abiru acknowledged that while the South-West has been spared the worst of terrorism, the surge in banditry, kidnappings, and violent crimes poses a severe threat to communities, farmlands, and major highways.
He specifically pointed to the incursions by groups like Lakurawa into Kwara and Kogi states as evidence of the urgent need for proactive action. Abiru urged citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies, while also calling on the media to foster national unity and avoid reports that could cause ethnic or religious polarization.
Regional Framework and Economic Imperatives
Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, underscored the necessity of a cohesive regional security architecture. Speaking on behalf of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, Ogunsan advocated for a unified, technology-driven Amotekun command and the active involvement of traditional leaders in security efforts.
He powerfully linked security to economic prosperity, stating, “Security is not just about peace—it is about protecting our economy.” He highlighted how disrupted markets, farmlands, and transportation networks directly harm livelihoods and stifle growth, insisting that any effective strategy must be intelligence-driven and community-focused.
The call for a multi-faceted approach was echoed by other senators, including Ibrahim Jimoh of Ondo South and Gbenga Daniel of Ogun East, who advocated for a combination of civilian and military efforts to decisively address insecurity.
Traditional Rulers and Civil Society Weigh In
The summit provided a platform for traditional institutions to voice their recommendations. Prominent figures such as Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, the Alara of Ilara, and Aare Onakankanfo, Iba Gani Adams, pushed for:
- Community policing initiatives
- Integration of modern technology
- Expanded recruitment into security services
- Better funding for security operations
- Youth empowerment programs to address root causes
Representatives from civil society, religious groups, women, and youth organizations added a crucial point, stressing that improving the welfare and working conditions of security operatives is fundamental to ensuring they can serve effectively and without fear.
The summit concluded with a powerful, unified message: collaboration, innovation, and local involvement are non-negotiable elements in the fight to curb insecurity in the South-West and protect the nation at large.
