The Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, has declared that overcoming Nigeria’s pervasive insecurity cannot be achieved within a single year. His statement comes as a response to growing public frustration over the escalating violence and the seeming lack of progress in tackling security challenges across the country. General Irabor’s remarks emphasize the complexity of the security situation and the long-term commitment required to address it effectively.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!In a recent press conference held at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, General Irabor addressed the media to provide an update on the ongoing security operations and the challenges faced by the Nigerian military. He acknowledged the widespread concern and dissatisfaction among Nigerians regarding the persistent attacks by insurgents, bandits, and other criminal elements. Despite the efforts of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies, insecurity remains a significant issue affecting various parts of the country.
General Irabor stated, “The security situation in Nigeria is indeed serious and complex. We are fully aware of the urgent need to restore peace and stability. However, it is important to understand that resolving these issues is not something that can be accomplished within a year. It requires a sustained, multi-faceted approach and a long-term commitment from all stakeholders.”
The Defence Chief elaborated on the multifaceted nature of Nigeria’s security challenges, which include terrorism by groups like Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), armed banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and communal clashes. He highlighted that these issues are deeply rooted in socio-economic factors such as poverty, unemployment, and inadequate governance, which complicate efforts to achieve lasting solutions.
General Irabor emphasized that the military is actively engaged in various operations to combat insecurity, including counter-terrorism operations in the North East and anti-banditry campaigns in the North West and North Central regions. He also pointed to recent successes, such as the elimination of key insurgent leaders and the disruption of criminal networks. Despite these efforts, he cautioned that complete eradication of insecurity is a gradual process that requires patience and perseverance.
The Defence Chief also stressed the importance of collaborative efforts between the military, law enforcement agencies, and local communities. “Security is not solely the responsibility of the armed forces. It involves a comprehensive approach that includes intelligence gathering, community engagement, and effective policing,” Irabor said. He called for increased support and cooperation from local communities, urging citizens to provide timely information and collaborate with security agencies to enhance their effectiveness.
In response to concerns about the perceived slow pace of progress, General Irabor assured the public that the military remains committed to achieving lasting peace. He outlined ongoing efforts to enhance operational capabilities, including the procurement of advanced equipment and the improvement of training for personnel. “We are continuously upgrading our strategies and resources to better address the evolving security threats,” he noted.
General Irabor’s statement has elicited mixed reactions from the public and political leaders. While some appreciate the realistic assessment of the security situation, others express frustration over the extended timeline and the continued hardships faced by affected communities. Calls for more immediate and tangible results from security operations persist, with many Nigerians hoping for a more visible impact in the near future.
In conclusion, General Lucky Irabor’s assertion that insecurity cannot be resolved within a year underscores the complexity and depth of Nigeria’s security challenges. It highlights the need for a long-term, collaborative approach involving various stakeholders to achieve sustainable peace and stability. As the country continues to grapple with these issues, the commitment and resilience of both security forces and citizens will be crucial in the journey toward a safer Nigeria.