Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has called for a decisive and proactive approach to combating terrorism in Nigeria, warning that peace, unity, and the survival of the nation depend heavily on the government’s ability to defeat insurgents and bandits.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Sani criticized the Federal Government’s continued reliance on security summits and dialogues without implementing effective on-ground actions against terrorists and criminal groups.
Need for a Shift in Nigeria’s Anti-Terrorism Strategy
The former senator emphasized that Nigeria has been battling terrorism and banditry for over a decade, particularly in the northern regions, with little success in fully containing the threats. He noted that despite numerous high-level meetings and security summits, terrorists continue to inflict terror on communities.
“We have had countless discussions, summits, and conferences on national security. Yet, we are still grappling with the same issues. What the country needs now is less talk and more direct, impactful action,” Sani stated.
He further stressed that terrorists and armed bandits remain emboldened, often resurfacing with renewed strength after every perceived defeat. According to him, villages are still being razed, people are being kidnapped for ransom, and thousands remain displaced.
Senate Proposes National Security Summit
In response to the worsening insecurity, particularly in the North, the Nigerian Senate recently resolved to establish an ad hoc committee to organize a two-day national security summit in Abuja. The summit is expected to bring together stakeholders from federal, state, and local governments, traditional institutions, and the private sector to find actionable solutions to the country’s growing security crisis.
While acknowledging the effort, Sani maintained that Nigeria has moved beyond the stage of dialogues and conferences.
“These terrorists have repeatedly proven to be resilient and adaptive. Each time we think we’ve gained the upper hand, they strike again—bolder and more violent than before. We can no longer afford to rely solely on theoretical approaches,” he added.
Insecurity Is a Regional Challenge, Not Just Nigeria’s Battle
Senator Sani also pointed out that the fight against terrorism in Nigeria is part of a broader regional conflict affecting West African nations like Niger Republic, Mali, and Burkina Faso. He urged the Nigerian government to strengthen its collaboration with neighboring countries and regional bodies to combat transnational terrorist networks more effectively.
Calls for Urgent Military and Intelligence Reform
In his final remarks, the former senator urged the government to invest in advanced military strategies, better intelligence gathering, and a more coordinated counter-terrorism campaign. According to him, national survival depends on the government’s ability to ensure peace and stability across the country.
