
Amid escalating insecurity across Nigeria, the Senate has resolved to convene a two-day National Security Summit in Abuja to tackle the nation's growing security concerns. The summit will bring together representatives from the Federal, State, and Local Governments, along with Traditional Institutions, to collectively devise practical solutions to the country’s worsening security crisis.
The Senate has urged the Federal Government to review and reform existing security policies in line with recommendations expected from the summit. This decision followed the presentation of a motion titled “Urgent Need for a National Security Summit,” which was moved on Tuesday by Senator Ibrahim Jimoh, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs and representative of Ondo South. The motion was co-sponsored by Senators Zam Titus (Benue North-West), Peter Onyeka Nwebonyl (Ebonyi North), and Ngwu Osita (Enugu West, PDP).
In his remarks, Senator Jimoh drew attention to the global dimensions of insecurity, citing the Russia-Ukraine war, which has worsened food insecurity and impeded the realization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He also referenced growing geopolitical tensions between the global North and South, and economic conflicts like the U.S. tariff wars, which are undermining global stability.
Senator Jimoh voiced deep concern over the effects of these international crises on Nigeria, where insecurity—manifesting in banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism—has become widespread in both urban and rural areas. He recalled past political upheavals, including the 1953 Kano riots, the constitutional crises in the Eastern Region during the 1960s, and the electoral unrest of the 1980s, warning that Nigeria’s political history should inform its present security strategies as the nation prepares for upcoming elections.
He praised President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to resolving Nigeria’s security issues and called for enhanced intelligence support to foster national peace. While acknowledging advancements in military tactics and communication, Senator Jimoh advocated for alternative approaches to military operations and increased funding to strengthen the Armed Forces. He also urged the Senate to align with the "Peace for All" principle, in harmony with the executive’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
The summit is expected to serve as a comprehensive platform for dialogue among policymakers, security agencies, and other stakeholders to develop actionable strategies for national security and stability.
Senator Ahmad Lawan, former President of the 9th Senate, had previously initiated a similar security summit, stressing the Senate’s responsibility to spearhead efforts in addressing nationwide insecurity. The forthcoming summit aims to build on such past initiatives and deliver practical recommendations for government implementation.