Security and crime management expert, Dr. Fidel Agaba Iduh, has emphasised the importance of grassroots intelligence and community engagement in Nigeria’s fight against banditry and terrorism.
Speaking on ARISE News on Saturday, he highlighted both the role of foreign interventions and the need for stronger local participation in tackling insecurity.
Reflecting on the recent US strike in Sokoto State, Dr. Agaba said: “It has also sent a lot of very good signals to the Lakurawa and the ISIS from that axis in the northwest.”
He added that such interventions are critical, while stressing the need for continued support.
“But again, we need more of these interventions.”
Dr. Agaba acknowledged the Nigerian government’s efforts, noting the collaborative approach involving multiple agencies: “This war cannot be fought just by government or one entity. It requires a holistic approach and a collaborative effort.”
He also highlighted the contribution of the Defence Ministry under current leadership, including internal military production and diplomatic engagement: “The internal production of military equipment is boosting morale because procurement has been a very big challenge in terms of delay, logistics and cost.”
“The current minister has strengthened diplomatic ties with China, Turkey and even the USA to ensure these supports are given and to enhance training capacity and intelligence within the armed forces, so it’s a good one.”
Addressing public scepticism over Defence Ministry performance, Dr. Agaba urged recognition of achievements:
“One of the things we’re doing now as a country is that when there are good things, testimonies and achievements, we don’t seem to applaud our leaders.”
“These achievements could not have been done alone without collaborative efforts and diplomatic engagements.”
Turning to long-term solutions, Dr. Agaba stressed the critical role of local communities in intelligence gathering:
“My take is to strengthen grassroots intelligence gathering and engaging the communities because crime is local.”
“The approval of the Nigerian Forest Guard is a good development. That means they are trying to use a grassroots based model to address this issue.”
“It’s all about intelligence gathering and managing it effectively to deliver anticipated results.”
Dr. Agaba noted that insecurity is exacerbated by social factors such as poverty and unemployment, making communities vulnerable to recruitment by insurgents:
“Most of these problems in the north were heightened by poverty and unemployment. That’s why the region is more affected and vulnerable to recruitment.”
He stressed that foreign interventions, while helpful, must complement strong local structures and collaboration with communities:
“Crime is local and getting the communities and the grassroots people involved and the local authorities who provide a lot of… support is crucial.”
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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