Defeating insecurity and insurgents in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach, including the following ten tactical steps:
1. Military Operations: Conducting targeted military operations to neutralise insurgent groups and secure affected areas.
KEY AGENCIES INVOLVED: The Military, the NPF
2. Intelligence Gathering: Enhancing intelligence gathering capabilities to identify and disrupt insurgent activities before they occur, including a widespread use of Informants.
KEY AGENCIES INVOLVED: All Security Agencies, The NSA
3. Counterinsurgency Tactics: Implementing counterinsurgency tactics such as winning hearts and minds, building trust with local communities, and providing essential services.
KEY AGENCIES INVOLVED: All Security Agencies, The NSA, Relevant Govt MDAs
4. Border Security: Strengthening border security to prevent the infiltration of insurgents and illegal activities.
KEY AGENCIES INVOLVED: Customs; immigration service; NSCDC, NPF, The NSA
5. Effective Law Enforcement: Improving the capacity and effectiveness of law enforcement agencies to maintain law and order and prosecute insurgents.
KEY AGENCIES INVOLVED: The NPF, NSCDC, The NSA
6. International Cooperation: Collaborating with neighbouring countries and international partners to address cross-border threats and disrupt sources of external support for insurgents.
KEY AGENCIES INVOLVED: The Military, NIA, SSS, Foreign Affairs Ministry, Presidency
7. Development Initiatives: Implementing development initiatives to address underlying grievances, poverty, and inequality that contribute to insecurity and support for insurgents.
KEY AGENCIES INVOLVED: All Tiers of Government, NPF
8. Political Solutions: Pursuing political solutions through dialogue, negotiation, and reconciliation to address root causes of conflict and address grievances.
KEY AGENCIES INVOLVED: All Tiers of Government; NPF, The NSA
9. Community Engagement: Engaging with local communities to empower them in the fight against insurgents, including supporting community defence initiatives.
KEY AGENCIES INVOLVED: State and Local Governments, NPF
10. Strategic Communication: Utilizing strategic communication to counter insurgent propaganda and win public support for counterinsurgency efforts.
KEY AGENCIES INVOLVED: All government Communication and Information agencies and units. The NSA
Mr. President, you need to tie the jobs of players in our security estate to specific outcomes. I also believe there should be an immediate cabinet reshuffle of political appointees at the head of our security ministries.
Many have become stumbling blocks to progress and need to go. And some frankly have shown themselves to be round pegs in square holes.