CSOs Push for Community-Driven Security Strategy, Urge FG to Deepen Grassroots Collaboration
Accredited Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) across Nigeria have issued a compelling call for a transformative shift towards a more inclusive and community-driven approach to addressing the nation's escalating insecurity. In a joint statement released on Monday, these groups urged the Federal Government to significantly deepen its collaboration with grassroots actors, emphasizing that traditional security measures are no longer sufficient in the face of evolving threats.
Grassroots Intelligence as a Key Asset
Kunle Yusuff, the Director-General of the Civil Society Organisations on Community Advancement and Humanitarian Empowerment Initiative, highlighted that the dynamic nature of insecurity demands strategies that extend beyond conventional responses. He stressed that communities must be placed at the forefront of prevention and early warning efforts. According to the organisations, their extensive grassroots presence provides unparalleled access to local intelligence, early warning signals, and trust-based networks, which are crucial for curbing violence before it escalates into full-blown crises.
Enhancing Government-Civil Society Engagement
The CSOs and CBOs argued that stronger engagement between government agencies and civil society actors would lead to enhanced intelligence gathering, improved situational awareness, and greater active community participation in security initiatives. They pointed out that community-driven mechanisms, such as local dialogue platforms, conflict resolution structures, and peacebuilding initiatives, remain vital in addressing tensions and preventing outbreaks of violence in vulnerable areas. Additionally, they underscored the importance of integrating technology with local knowledge, noting that effective security management requires a sophisticated blend of modern tools and community-based intelligence.
Addressing Root Causes of Insecurity
Beyond immediate security measures, the organisations drew attention to the underlying factors fueling insecurity, including poverty, unemployment, and social exclusion. They warned that failure to systematically address these root causes could perpetuate violence and threaten national stability. While reaffirming their commitment to supporting government efforts, the groups urged policymakers to institutionalise frameworks that formally integrate CSOs and CBOs into both national and sub-national security architecture. They maintained that lasting peace and security in Nigeria can only be achieved through sustained collaboration, trust-building, and inclusive policies that empower communities at all levels.
