The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday resolved to hold a two-day national security summit to address the escalating insecurity plaguing states across the country, including banditry, kidnappings, and terrorism. The decision followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Senator Jimoh Folorunsho Ibrahim (Ondo South), who linked Nigeria’s security challenges to global economic and geopolitical tensions, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and U.S.-China trade disputes.
Senator Ibrahim highlighted the pervasive nature of insecurity, noting that banditry, ransom kidnappings, and violent crimes have spread to both urban and rural areas, undermining the efforts of Nigeria’s security forces. “Recent global events, including new American tariffs and tensions with China, have compounded our challenges,” he said, warning that these issues threaten past security gains.
Contributing to the debate, Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) decried the daily loss of servicemen to bandit attacks, stating that bandits are gaining control in states like Zamfara, Benue, Plateau, Kwara, Kogi, Sokoto, and even parts of the Federal Capital Territory. “You cannot travel to Kwali without encountering bandits,” he warned, urging an overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South) called for lawmakers to confront the crisis with urgency and honesty, while Minority Leader Abba Moro (Benue South) highlighted frequent kidnappings in Otukpo, endorsing the summit as a platform for experts to propose solutions. Senator Titus Zam (Benue North West) revealed that bandits are hoisting flags in occupied wards in Benue, underscoring the need for immediate action.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio approved a two-day summit, scaled down from the proposed three days, expressing confidence that it would yield actionable solutions. The summit will involve governors, traditional rulers, service chiefs, and security experts to collaboratively address the crisis.
“Security is everyone’s business,” Senator Moro emphasized, advocating for inclusive efforts to restore safety across Nigeria.
