The Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, stated that he would convene with the North-West Governors to review the recommendations of the peace and security summit and propose effective solutions to insecurity in the region.
Mr Abubakar made this announcement during the two-day Peace and Security Summit organized by the North-West Governors’ Forum, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), held on Monday in Katsina.
The summit’s theme was “Regional Cooperation for Securing Lives and Livelihoods.”
“In a few days, we will sit down with the governors to examine the outcomes and recommendations from this summit. We will then visit each state with all security agencies to assess the security situation and implement the recommendations to find effective solutions to end insecurity in Nigeria.
“I believe we can do it. Together, we will tackle insecurity, combat poverty, and steer Nigeria back on track,” he assured.
Abubakar emphasized that the government was prepared to engage in all possible collaborations to address insecurity effectively.
“We are open to partnerships and collaborations because we understand that success requires collaboration with the governors,” the minister added.
He reiterated the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to ending insecurity not only in the northwest but across the entire country.
Mohammed Malick, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, highlighted that maintaining peace and security was a crucial mandate of the United Nations to safeguard future generations.
He acknowledged Nigeria’s numerous challenges, including insecurity and economic issues, which could hinder the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Malick emphasized that women were disproportionately affected by security challenges, underscoring the ongoing need to address these issues.
He assured the UN’s unwavering support to Nigeria in addressing these challenges.
Elsie Autafua, representing UNDP, emphasized the vital role of peace and security in the development of any nation.
“Development cannot thrive without peace,” she emphasized.
Autafua noted the northwest region’s significant potential for economic growth, highlighting the need for concerted efforts to ensure peace and security.
She stressed that achieving peace in the northwest required collaboration among all stakeholders.
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