As 2024 unfolds, Nigerians have seen a sustained effort from security agencies to curb the escalating security threats plaguing the nation. The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) launched a series of coordinated military operations across five key regions: North East, North West, North Central, South South, and South East, with the aim of restoring peace and stability. However, despite these intense efforts, insecurity continues to be a persistent and overwhelming challenge.
At the start of the year, the military identified 106 notorious terrorist leaders, including Simon Ekpa, a prominent separatist figure who is believed to be hiding in Finland. These individuals are implicated in violent insurgencies and are seen as major threats to the country’s peace. While some of them have been killed in battle and others apprehended, many still operate from the bushes, wreaking havoc and continuing their reign of terror across various communities. The military’s ongoing operations remain focused on tracking down and neutralizing these individuals to help restore order.
As 2024 draws to a close, reports indicate that the security forces have made significant progress: at least 8,034 terrorists have been killed, 11,623 suspects arrested, and 6,376 hostages freed. Additionally, military operations have led to the recovery of 8,216 weapons and over 200,000 rounds of ammunition, with stolen goods worth ₦57.05 billion also being recovered.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, highlighted that these efforts have contributed to an increase in crude oil production, which now stands at 1.8 million barrels per day—aligning with the President’s directive to combat crude oil theft.
Despite these achievements, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) paints a grim picture. In 2024, Nigerians paid a staggering ₦2.2 trillion in ransom, while over 2.2 million Nigerians were kidnapped, and 614,937 lives were lost to violence. This alarming data was echoed by Brigadier General Sani K. Usman (Rtd), who commended the military’s efforts but warned that these figures reflect the severe and continuing security challenges facing the nation.
The figures, though disputed in terms of their methodology, underline the ongoing struggles that Nigerians face. The persistent threat of terrorism, insurgency, and violent crime continues to disrupt daily life. Communities are displaced, lives are lost, and the nation faces an immense economic burden. These challenges necessitate a renewed and coordinated effort from both security agencies and the government.
In response to the ongoing crisis, Brigadier General Usman called for a strategic shift in security operations in the year ahead. He outlined several key measures that need to be prioritized:
1. Enhanced Intelligence Gathering: Strengthening intelligence networks and fostering collaboration between security agencies and local communities will help preempt and disrupt criminal activities.
2. Integrating Kinetic and Non-Kinetic Approaches: While military action is essential, addressing the root causes of insecurity—poverty, unemployment, and social unrest—through community engagement and socio-economic interventions will offer long-term solutions.
3. Community Policing: Empowering local vigilante groups and scaling up community policing efforts will bring security operations closer to the people, fostering trust and responsiveness.
4. Improving Anti-Kidnapping Efforts: The development of a robust anti-kidnapping strategy that incorporates technology such as GPS tracking and drones will improve rescue operations and dismantle criminal networks.
5. Capacity Building for Security Personnel: Investments in the training and welfare of security forces will equip them to handle emerging threats and maintain morale.
6. Leveraging Technology and Data: The use of advanced surveillance systems, AI, and a centralized crime database will enhance coordination among security agencies and improve operational effectiveness.
7. Focusing on Marginalized and Border Areas: Increased security presence in underserved and border regions is essential for curbing cross-border crimes and addressing socio-economic disparities.
8. Strengthening Regional and International Collaboration: Cross-border partnerships with neighboring countries such as Benin, Chad, Cameroon, and Niger are vital to combating transnational crimes like terrorism and arms smuggling.
9. Revamping the Criminal Justice System: A timely and efficient judicial process is essential to ensure that arrested criminals are prosecuted quickly, serving as a deterrent to others.
Usman also emphasized the importance of public awareness and trust-building in combating insecurity. He suggested that strategic communication campaigns should educate the public on security measures and how they can contribute to national safety efforts.
Finally, he addressed the issue of ransom payments, acknowledging that while refusing to pay ransoms is a difficult stance to take, it is necessary for reducing the influence of kidnappers. Creating an environment conducive to this bold decision, however, will require systemic changes.
In conclusion, while the security challenges facing Nigeria remain formidable, these proposed measures, if implemented effectively, could pave the way for a safer and more stable 2025. The military, government, and citizens must continue to work together to address the underlying causes of insecurity and restore peace to the nation.
As we approach the new year, let us hope that 2025 brings much-needed progress in the fight against insecurity and sets Nigeria on the path to greater peace and prosperity.
Happy New Year in advance!
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