Abdulsalami Abubakar, Former Head of State, General(retd.), has called on Nigerians to forge a united front against the country’s lingering insecurity, declaring that defeating terrorism, banditry, and other criminal elements requires a collective, nationwide effort.
Speaking at his residence in Minna, Niger State, the elder statesman emphasized that the responsibility of securing the nation cannot be left solely to the military or government officials. Instead, he argued that lasting peace is only achievable through a synchronized partnership involving regular citizens, intelligence agencies, and all tiers of government.
Abubakar highlighted that local communities hold the key to breaking the cycle of violence. Because criminal elements live within communities, citizens often possess critical, ground-level information that can prevent attacks before they occur. He urged citizens to cooperate fully with law enforcement by reporting suspicious movements, emphasizing that timely intelligence sharing is the most effective weapon against urban criminality and rural banditry.
Addressing the institutional side of the crisis, the former leader called for enhanced coordination among Nigeria’s security agencies. He noted that rivalries and a lack of synergy often hamper operational efficiency. Abubakar stressed that federal, state, and local governments must align their strategies and funding to properly equip frontline personnel. Related News Abdulsalami urges national unity amid U.S. tensions, calls for diplomacy, restraint In life and in death Nigerian leaders are expensive, plus Ganduje's curious transmutation
