GOVERNOR ALIA IDENTIFIES MAJOR CAUSES OF INSECURITY IN NIGERIA

Governor HYACINTH ALIA of Benue State has identified what he described as a major factor responsible for the persistent insecurity in the country.

Speaking at the quarterly lecture series of Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, Governor ALIA cited illiteracy, poverty, unemployment, inequality, weak institutions, ethno-religious tensions, poor governance and declining social values as the key drivers of the worsening security situation.

The governor recalled that Nigeria has witnessed unprecedented levels of insecurity in recent decades, including the Boko Haram insurgency, which he described as an attack on Western education, as well as banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, and clashes between herders and farmers that have claimed several lives and caused widespread destruction of property, making national security a major concern for the government.

According to the governor, an effective public service and strong institutions are essential to addressing the country’s growing security challenges, stressing that the public service is responsible for delivering critical services and meeting the needs of both the state and its citizens.

The governor emphasized that promoting inclusive, equitable and quality education, lifelong learning, technical skills development, and safe learning environments at all levels would serve as a long-term strategy for tackling insecurity in Nigeria by addressing its root causes, including illiteracy, ignorance, poverty, religious extremism and unemployment, while also strengthening peace and sustainable development.