Security expert Dr. Yahuza Getso has said that Nigeria’s long-term security challenges cannot be resolved through force alone, stressing community-driven collaboration, equity, justice and coordinated planning are critical to building sustainable peace.
Getso Speaking in an interview on ARISE NEWS on Friday, he said insecurity must be examined beyond terrorism narratives, noting that the deeper challenge lies in how communities, institutions and authorities work together.
“First of all, we need to look at the issue of security. Yes, terrorism is an issue, but most of us are not terrorists.”
He argued that progress depends on whether society can function collectively and harmoniously.
“We need to ask ourselves: can we really work together as a community-driven society? Can we truly have a harmonious relationship between those who manage and those who depend on the system?”
According to him, security should be approached through cooperation among civil institutions, community structures and relevant agencies.
“I am looking at civil defence, I am looking at community-driven society, and I am looking at all the other parties,” he said.
Getso said his work consistently centres on justice and fairness as foundations for peace.
“My daily task is to look at the question of equity and justice, because peace is directly connected to justice.”
He questioned why societies often resist peace-building efforts instead of prioritising them.
“We need to ask: why do we keep pushing and pushing, and why do we not want to speak to peace policy?”
The security expert said effective coordination among stakeholders is essential.
“We are organised when there is coordination. When different groups have capacity, ability and can challenge each other constructively, that is what makes the system work.”
He stressed the need for structured planning and proper use of available resources.
“There are things we must look at: what resources are available, what space government and the private sector are providing, and whether we truly coordinate and organise.”
Getso also emphasised the importance of data in shaping security and development decisions.
“What is the data that we have, and how far can we go with it — in planning, initiating and establishing working relationships?”
He said engagement with stakeholders, including families and institutions, is crucial to identifying problems early.
“Was there any meeting with parents and teachers? What were the issues identified? These are questions that must be asked.”
Getso added that security thinking should extend beyond enforcement to education, skills and social environments.
“Not only in academics, but in the general environment, we must ask what gaps exist and what parameters need to change.”
He warned that ignoring cultural and social context weakens security interventions.
“The problem is when you do not understand the culture,” he said.
Getso concluded that peace and security are achieved incrementally through inclusive, people-centred approaches.
“It is one step at a time — one class, one student, one community at a time.”
Boluwatife Enome
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