Dr. Fidel Agaba Idu, a security and crime control expert, stressed the importance of grassroots intelligence and community engagement in the fight against banditry and terrorism in Nigeria.
Speaking on Saturday’s ARISE News, he emphasized both the role of foreign intervention and the need for stronger local participation in tackling insecurity.
Reflecting on the recent US attack in Sokoto State, Dr Agaba said, “It sent a lot of very good signals to Laklawa and ISIS from the northwest axis.”
He added that such interventions are important, stressing the need for continued support.
“But again, we need more of these interventions.”
Dr. Agaba acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian government, noting the collaborative multi-agency approach, saying, “This war cannot be fought by any government or one party alone. It requires a holistic approach and a collaborative effort.”
He also highlighted the Department of Defense’s contributions under current leadership, including domestic production of munitions and diplomatic engagement, saying, “Domestic production of military equipment is a morale booster, as procurement has been a huge challenge in terms of delays, logistics and costs.”
“The current minister is strengthening diplomatic relations with China, Turkey and even the United States to ensure that we provide this support and strengthen training capabilities and intelligence within the military, which is a good thing.”
Addressing public skepticism over the performance of the Ministry of Defence, Dr Agaba called for performance to be evaluated.
“One of the things we do as a country right now is that we don’t seem to praise our leaders, even when there are good things, testimonies and accomplishments.”
“These results could not have been achieved alone without collaborative efforts and diplomatic engagement.”
Dr. Agaba looked to long-term solutions and emphasized the important role of local communities in intelligence gathering.
“My idea is to increase grassroots intelligence gathering and community engagement because crime is local.”
“The approval of the Nigerian Forest Guard is a good development. It means that the Nigerian Forest Guard is trying to address this problem using a grassroots-based model.”
“The key is to gather information and manage it effectively to deliver the expected results.”
Dr. Agaba noted that insecurity is exacerbated by social factors such as poverty and unemployment, making communities vulnerable to recruitment by rebel groups.
“Most of these problems in the north have been exacerbated by poverty and unemployment, which makes the region more susceptible and vulnerable to recruitment.”
He stressed that foreign intervention, while helpful, must be complemented by strong regional structures and cooperation with communities.
“Crime is local and it is vitally important that we involve local communities, people at the grassroots and local authorities who can provide a lot of… support.”
Farida Abdulkadiri
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