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By correspondent in Lokoja.
Dr. Charles Omole,a renowned security strategist and governance expert, has identified poverty and underdevelopment as key drivers of instability, conflict, and insecurity in Nigeria.
Dr. Omole made this assertion while delivering the 17th Distinguished Public Lecture organized by the Federal University Lokoja, Kogi State.
The lecturer who spoke on The theme of the lecture: “Strengthening National Development through Effective Security in Nigeria”, emphasized that development and security are inseparable, stating, “Without security, there can be no meaningful development.”
The security expert noted that while insecurity hampers economic growth, neglecting essential needs such as education and healthcare can worsen security challenges.
“When basic needs are unmet, frustration grows, and the environment becomes ripe for unrest and crime,” he said.
To address this, Dr. Omole recommended that all government policies undergo a Security Impact Assessment to ensure they contribute to creating a safe environment conducive to national development.
In his opening remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, reiterated the centrality of security to national development.
“Security is the bedrock of economic growth, investment attraction, and social cohesion.
“Insecurity, on the other hand, disrupts the economy, weakens institutions, and threatens lives and property,”he said.
Professor Akinwumi highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges, including terrorism, insurgency, cybercrime, and banditry, and called for urgent and innovative solutions.
He praised Dr. Omole’s expertise and experience in law enforcement, intelligence, and national security policy, noting the expert’s unique capacity to offer practical strategies for improving Nigeria’s security landscape.
“As a citadel of learning, Federal University Lokoja remains committed to facilitating meaningful dialogue that informs policy and governance,” the Vice-Chancellor added.
He called on universities to engage in research, community-based initiatives, and training that supports national security efforts.
“This lecture should not only be viewed as an academic event but as a call to action for all stakeholders, government, security agencies, academia, civil society, and the public, to work together in addressing the nation’s security challenges.
“We must turn these ideas into actionable policies to strengthen our security framework and build a more prosperous Nigeria,” he urged.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
