Nigeria, under the watch of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has earned the unenviable mark of ranking sixth globally in terrorism, according to the Global Terrorism Index (GTI). This ranking is a stark reminder of the country’s struggles with terrorism, which has claimed countless lives and displaced many more, while the APC/Tinubu throw their hands up in hopelessness and helplessness.
The most recent GTI report reveals that Nigeria recorded 565 terrorism-related deaths in 2024. This staggering number, though conservative, is a testament to the brutality and frequency of terrorist attacks in the country. The report also notes that the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram have been responsible for the majority of terrorist attacks in Nigeria.
Nigeria’s sixth position in the global terrorism rankings is a cause for concern. It highlights the need for the government to reassess its strategies for combating terrorism and protecting its citizens. The country’s terrorism challenges are complex and multifaceted, requiring a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of extremism.
The human cost of terrorism in Nigeria is devastating. Families have been torn apart, communities have been displaced, and the country’s economic development has been severely impacted. The international community must recognize the gravity of Nigeria’s terrorism challenges and provide support to help the country combat this scourge.
To address its terrorism challenges, Nigeria must adopt a multifaceted approach that includes improving security measures. The government must ensure that its security agencies are adequately equipped and trained to counter terrorist threats. There should be a countercheck and the monitoring of funds released for the purpose of arms’ acquisition and the remuneration of troops in the war theatre since allegations of theft by top military personnel of the resources remained a major turn-off among the demotivated young military turks.
Secondly, further effort should be made towards addressing the root causes of extremism. Poverty, unemployment, and social inequality are major drivers of extremism. The government must invest in education, job creation, and social welfare programs to reduce the appeal of extremist ideologies.
Thirdly, promotion of dialogue and reconciliation. The government must engage in dialogue with communities affected by terrorism and work towards reconciliation and reintegration of former extremists. At a lecture in Abuja recently, where the topmost military leadership were in attendance, the Director-General of Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajaya advocated that Nigerians who are of age should bear arms to serve as the first line of defense mechanism against terrorism. I’m not sure that the timely suggestion made any sense to the policymakers who are idling away in the national assembly and the houses of assemblies across the country.
Fourthly, is the enhancement of regional and international cooperation. Nigeria must collaborate with neighboring countries and international partners to share intelligence, coordinate efforts, and address the transnational dimensions of terrorism. In this aspect, President Tinubu has failed woefully.
His leadership at the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), until he served out his term recently, has been marred by controversy, and his handling of regional relationships was severely criticized. Under his watch,
ECOWAS became increasingly divided, leading to far-reaching consequences for regional security, particularly in Nigeria’s northern region.
The division within ECOWAS was attributed to Tinubu’s leadership style, which has been described as authoritarian, self-seeking and self-serving. His administration’s policies have been criticized for prioritizing personal interests over regional cooperation and security. This has led to a breakdown in trust among ECOWAS member states, making it challenging to address regional security challenges.
The impact of ECOWAS’s division on Nigeria’s security situation has been unprecedented. The country’s northern region has witnessed increased terrorist attacks and banditry, which have been linked to the proliferation of small arms and light weapons from neighbouring countries, especially around the Lake Chad region. The lack of cooperation among ECOWAS member states has hindered efforts to address these security challenges, allowing terrorist groups to exploit the region’s porous borders.
Furthermore, Tinubu’s administration has been accused of mishandling the country’s relationships with neighboring countries, including Niger. The lack of effective diplomacy has led to a rise in tensions and terrorism, which has further destabilized the region and the entire country.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s sixth position in the global terrorism rankings is a wake-up call for President Bola Tinubu’s government and the international community. The country’s terrorism challenges require a comprehensive and sustained response that addresses the root causes of extremism and promotes dialogue, reconciliation, and regional cooperation. Without that, President Tinubu and the Nigerian military are merely seeking the bird that has flown.
Erasmus Ikhide contributed this piece via: ikhideluckyerasmus@gmail.com
‘…which has claimed countless lives and displaced many more…’ How many more than countless? Also, too many generalities.
‘…which has claimed countless lives and displaced many more…’ How many more than countless? Also, too many generalities.