Senate to Convene National Security Summit Amid Rising Insecurity

Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday resolved to organize a National Security Summit aimed at developing lasting solutions to the country’s escalating insecurity, particularly in rural and urban areas plagued by terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings.

The resolution followed a motion titled “Urgent Need for a National Security Summit” sponsored by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo South) and co-sponsored by Senators Titus Zam (Benue North-West), Nwebonyi Onyeka (Ebonyi North), and Osita Ngwu (Enugu West).

Leading the debate, Senator Jimoh warned of the dangerous implications of both domestic and global insecurity trends, referencing the Russia-Ukraine conflict and rising international economic tensions, including new American tariffs and strained U.S.-China relations.

He argued that Nigeria must reassess its internal security architecture and define its global strategic positioning to respond to emerging security threats and economic instability.

“Insecurity across Nigeria has become pervasive, impacting both urban and rural areas. Banditry, ransom kidnappings, terrorism, and other violent crimes are escalating, and the accomplishments of our security forces are increasingly at risk,” Jimoh said.

While acknowledging the ongoing efforts by the Tinubu administration to maintain national peace and security, the Senate also called for enhanced intelligence support and the adoption of alternative communication strategies for military operations.

Several lawmakers expressed strong support for the motion, including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Senators Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central), Titus Zam (Benue North-West), Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central), Abba Moro (Benue South), and Dandutse Muntari (Katsina South). Many stressed the urgency of a comprehensive national conversation on security.

However, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South) offered a note of caution. He pointed out that previous national security summits had failed to produce tangible results and emphasized the need to address root causes of insecurity, including poverty and poor governance.

“This is not the first time we are holding a summit. Unless we are ready to tell ourselves the truth, nothing fruitful will come out of it. But I support the motion and its prayers,” Abaribe said.

In response, Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the formation of an ad-hoc committee to organize a three-day National Security Summit in Abuja. The summit is expected to bring together stakeholders from federal, state, and local governments, as well as traditional rulers and security experts.

The Senate also urged the Federal Government to review and overhaul Nigeria’s current security strategies based on the recommendations of the summit, with the aim of adopting a more effective and holistic approach.

Lawmakers expressed optimism that the summit will generate actionable policies capable of addressing Nigeria’s deepening security crisis.