Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has stated that Nigeria’s growing security challenges cannot be addressed by military force alone. Speaking at a workshop in Abuja on Monday, organized in collaboration with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), Abbas emphasized the importance of integrating non-kinetic strategies to combat terrorism, banditry, and other violent threats.
Abbas highlighted the need for diplomatic dialogue, economic empowerment, psychological interventions, and community-driven initiatives as crucial components of a sustainable security framework. He noted that Nigeria has invested billions in military operations over the past two decades, including N3.25 trillion allocated to defense and security in the 2024 national budget, which amounts to 12% of the budget.
While acknowledging the vital role of military action, the Speaker underscored the importance of addressing the root causes of insecurity, such as investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He also pointed to community policing, made possible by the Police Act of 2020, as a means to strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and local communities.
Abbas further announced the creation of a Standing Committee on Peacebuilding and Social Cohesion within the House of Representatives. This committee, which is the first of its kind in Nigeria and possibly in Africa, will focus on promoting policies that foster peace and stability across the country.
