Security Experts Propose Holistic Approach to Combat Nigeria's Insecurity Crisis
In the wake of escalating terrorist attacks across Nigeria, security professionals are advocating for a multifaceted strategy beyond military interventions to address the nation's persistent security challenges. Recent incidents, including multiple explosions in Maiduguri on March 16, 2026, and attacks on military locations in states like Borno and Yobe, underscore the urgency of this issue.
Government Measures and International Collaboration
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a nationwide security emergency on November 26, 2025, authorizing additional recruitment into the Armed Forces and police, with over 50,000 new recruits planned. The 2026 budget allocated more than N5 trillion to the Defence/Security sector, the highest in recent history, aimed at acquiring hardware and covering recurrent expenses.
Nigeria has strengthened its partnership with the United States, establishing a Joint Working Group and a cooperation framework to dismantle terrorist networks. Approximately 200 U.S. troops are present in Nigeria, primarily for training and advisory roles, with joint airstrikes conducted in Sokoto State in December 2025. Despite these efforts, attacks on soft targets and military positions continue unabated in regions such as Kwara, Niger, Plateau, and Benue states.
Expert Recommendations for Accountability and Root Causes
Dr. Kabir Adamu, Managing Director of Beacon Security and Intelligence Limited, emphasizes the need for operational and financial accountability within the security sector. He criticizes the lack of performance measurement for ongoing operations like Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Fansan Yamma, which have spanned over a decade without clear exit strategies.
"Hold both the political appointees as well as the security sector leadership accountable," Adamu stated. "If internal security improves under the Inspector-General of Police in a verifiable manner, we applaud him; if not, we replace him with someone competent." He advocates for a presidential dashboard to monitor the effectiveness of the 42 organizations under the security sector.
Adamu also highlights financial accountability concerns, noting that the substantial budget allocation lacks transparency. "Our national security apparatus lacks accountability and focus. Until we address governance challenges at local levels, no foreign party can solve our issues of insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings," he added, cautioning against over-reliance on U.S. support due to their own global priorities.
Addressing Socio-Economic Drivers of Insecurity
Dolapo Oyedokun, a counter-terrorism specialist at Ohio University, argues that military pressure alone is insufficient for lasting peace. He identifies endemic poverty, youth unemployment, illiteracy, and regional neglect as root causes fueling groups like Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Lakurawa.
"Without targeted development to address these underlying issues, new fighters will continue to emerge even as others are neutralized," Oyedokun explained. He praises the Tinubu administration's firm stance against terrorists but stresses the importance of community involvement, urging partnerships with traditional rulers and local residents for intelligence-sharing and early-warning systems.
Military Adaptation and Public Support
During a visit to Yobe State, Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu acknowledged recent operational challenges, including attacks on troops, but reaffirmed the Army's commitment to adapting strategies to emerging threats. He called for enhanced support from state governments for frontline operations, emphasizing the role of public cooperation in achieving security objectives.
Oyedokun concludes, "With sustained whole-of-government action, stronger community intelligence-sharing, and public support, Nigeria can gradually turn the tide. A balanced strategy combining kinetic pressure with root-cause interventions offers the most credible path to enduring stability."
