A former Chief Finance Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, Umar Isa Ajiya, has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, warning that the country’s persistent insecurity could escalate into a national crisis if citizens fail to actively support government efforts in tackling the menace.
Speaking in a statement issued to journalists, Ajiya noted that Nigeria has been grappling with multiple security challenges for more than two decades, ranging from insurgency by Boko Haram to widespread kidnapping, banditry, cattle rustling, and other violent crimes that have continued to threaten national stability and economic growth.
According to him, while the Federal Government and several state governments have made considerable efforts to address the situation, it has become increasingly evident that government intervention alone cannot solve the problem. He stressed that every responsible citizen has a role to play by providing credible intelligence, contributing resources where possible, and offering constructive ideas and advice to support security agencies.
The elder statesman emphasized that history has repeatedly shown that when the majority of law-abiding citizens remain silent in the face of growing societal challenges, such problems often worsen and become more difficult to resolve.
“Throughout history, the failure of the good majority to speak up has allowed systemic issues to thrive, whether in civic life or spiritual matters. If this trend continues, Nigeria stands the risk of a national meltdown that Africa cannot swallow,” he warned.
The elder statesman said the gravity of the current security challenges compelled him, as a concerned private citizen, to propose a number of policy options and practical solutions that government authorities may consider in their efforts to restore peace and security across the country.
Among his recommendations was the need for adequate and timely funding of security agencies, backed by measurable Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and accountability mechanisms to ensure efficient utilization of resources.
He also called for improved intelligence gathering and the effective deployment of technology, particularly drones, to enhance surveillance operations. According to him, security agencies should be held accountable for failure to act on intelligence provided by relevant agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS).
On community policing, Ajiya advocated the establishment of state police or, alternatively, the deployment of police officers below the rank of Deputy Commissioner of Police to their respective states of origin under the existing federal policing structure. He further recommended the compulsory registration of all citizens under the National Identification Number (NIN) scheme, with links to phone numbers and bank accounts to improve traceability and intelligence gathering.
To address the growing trend of kidnappings, he proposed a nationwide ban on ransom payments and encouraged a gradual transition to a cashless economy, supported by strict enforcement measures against violators.
The elder statesman also expressed concern over alleged political interference in security matters, urging authorities to closely monitor political actors suspected of maintaining links with criminal elements. He called for the prosecution of anyone found aiding or collaborating with bandits and other criminal groups.
Ajiya highlighted the need for stronger coordination among security agencies, recommending the establishment of centralized Command and Control Centres (CCC) in every state. Such centres, he said, should be supported by Rapid Response Squads in all local government areas and vulnerable zones to facilitate swift and coordinated responses to security threats.
He further advocated improved welfare packages for frontline security personnel, insisting that benefits and allowances should be paid directly into the accounts of officers rather than through administrative channels that could delay or distort payments.
On border security, Ajiya urged Nigeria to strengthen collaboration with neighbouring countries through the creation of a regional joint task force equipped with drone technology and air power to monitor and secure porous border regions.
In a recommendation likely to generate public debate, he suggested that responsible citizens should be permitted to own firearms under a carefully regulated licensing framework. He also proposed empowering state forest guards and retired military personnel willing to serve in protecting their local communities.
Addressing infrastructure-related security concerns, Ajiya called for the urgent rehabilitation of major roads by both federal and state governments. He proposed the installation of scanners and security checkpoints at key entry and exit points into towns and cities to improve monitoring and crime detection.
On the issue of cattle rustling, he recommended that the Federal Government establish a comprehensive animal transaction registry requiring detailed records of buyers and sellers, including photographs and contact information, while also taking steps to prevent the sale of stolen livestock in markets across the country.
Ajiya further urged both government authorities and citizens to work collectively to confront the country’s security challenges, stressing that national security should be regarded as a shared responsibility requiring commitment from all stakeholders.
He expressed optimism that with stronger collaboration, accountability, technology-driven solutions, and active citizen participation, Nigeria can overcome its current security challenges and build a safer future for all.
