Introduction: Rethinking Nigeria’s Security Landscape
Nigeria’s security situation is widely described as multifaceted, spanning terrorism, banditry, cult violence, kidnapping, and organized crime. While the police play a crucial role, critics argue that focusing on policing alone will not yield lasting stability. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has joined the call for a broader, more integrated approach that tackles underlying factors driving insecurity and avoids cosmetic reforms that merely redraw the surface without strengthening core institutions.
In recent signals from the administration, there is talk of withdrawing police operations from VIP protection as part of a reform package. Proponents argue this could free up police resources for local crime-fighting. Critics, however, warn that such moves could create gaps in protection, erode public trust, and overlook the need for a comprehensive security framework that includes intelligence, border control, and community partnerships.
Why the ADC Says “Cosmetic” Reforms Won’t Suffice
The ADC’s stance is that security reforms must be systemic, not symbolic. A cosmetic approach concentrates on appearances—military rhetoric, reorganized commands, or high-profile personnel decisions—without addressing the root causes: poverty, unemployment, corruption, unintegrated intelligence networks, and weak border management. The ADC argues that the nation’s security architecture should be built on four pillars: effective intelligence and law enforcement, robust border and critical infrastructure protection, community-based crime prevention, and sustainable economic development that reduces vulnerability to violence.
Intelligence and Information Sharing
Effective security depends on timely, accurate information. Nigeria’s agencies must break down silos, promote inter-agency collaboration, and leverage modern data analytics. The ADC emphasizes that intelligence should reach decision-makers quickly and be used to prevent incidents rather than merely respond after they occur. Strong oversight and civilian control can help ensure accountability while still enabling rapid action against credible threats.
Borders, Corridors, and Cross-Border Threats
Many security challenges have a cross-border dimension. Insecurity spills over from neighboring regions, and illicit trade funds criminal networks. The ADC recommends strengthening border controls, customs collaboration, and regional policing agreements. Investment in surveillance, rapid-response units along critical corridors, and community-based reporting mechanisms can help reduce incursions and trafficking while supporting legitimate commerce.
Beyond the Police: A Whole-of-Society Security Approach
Security is not the sole responsibility of the police or the military. A holistic strategy engages civil society, local governments, traditional leaders, and private sector participants. The ADC’s framework includes:
- Community Policing and Trust-Building: programs that bring security services closer to residents, address local grievances, and increase reporting of suspicious activity.
- Judicial and Correctional Reforms: ensure swift, fair prosecutions and rehabilitation to prevent cycles of violence and reoffending.
- Economic Initiatives: job creation, skills training, and investment in vulnerable communities to reduce the lure of crime.
- Public Health and Social Services: addressing root causes such as housing, education, and mental health that can fuel instability.
- Resourced Security Institutions: adequate funding, equipment, training, and accountability mechanisms for the police, military, and intelligence agencies.
The ADC cautions that withdrawing police roles from VIP protection should be carefully sequenced within a broader, well-resourced reform package. Without a robust replacement for protective duties and an enhanced civilian oversight framework, such a move could undermine law and order and erode public confidence in state capacity.
What This Means for Nigeria’s Future Security Policy
For Nigerians living with daily security concerns, the most meaningful policy changes would be those that reduce violence and restore confidence in government institutions. A policy that links security to development—creating formal avenues for community input, ensuring fair justice, and promoting transparent governance—stands a better chance of delivering durable peace than a cosmetic overhaul. The ADC’s position urges President Tinubu to adopt a strategy that aligns national security with economic resilience and social cohesion.
In sum, Nigeria’s security challenges demand a comprehensive approach that transcends police reform. By strengthening intelligence, securing borders, empowering communities, and investing in development, the country can move toward lasting stability rather than episodic, surface-level change.
Conclusion
As Nigeria faces a complex security landscape, the call from the ADC for a holistic, non-cosmetic strategy resonates with voters seeking tangible improvement. The administration’s willingness to engage with diverse actors—civil society, regional partners, and local governments—will shape whether security becomes a foundation for growth or a persistent source of uncertainty.
