Former Kano State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has called for urgent changes to Nigeria’s security system, saying rising violence across the country shows that current strategies are not delivering the expected results.
Kwankwaso made the call on Tuesday through a statement posted on his X account, where he expressed concern over the growing cases of banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, armed robbery and communal conflicts affecting different parts of the country.
According to him, many Nigerians now live in fear as attacks continue in several states, including Zamfara, Borno, Sokoto, Katsina, Kwara and Oyo. He said the worsening situation has made it difficult for many citizens to feel safe in their communities.
The former governor also raised concerns about the confidence with which criminal groups now operate. He noted that some criminals openly use social media platforms to spread fear and challenge authorities, a development he described as disturbing for a country like Nigeria.
Drawing from his experience as a former Minister of Defence and governor, Kwankwaso said Nigeria has the capacity to overcome its security challenges. He maintained that the country possesses the resources needed to tackle insecurity but lacks the level of commitment required to deal with the problem effectively.
He argued that despite huge government spending on security over the years, attacks have continued in many parts of the country, leading to the loss of lives and the displacement of thousands of residents from their homes.
Kwankwaso called for better welfare packages for security personnel, saying officers and men serving on the frontlines need stronger support and motivation to carry out their duties effectively. He also advocated improved intelligence gathering and closer cooperation between security agencies and local communities.
The NDC chieftain further urged the government to address the social and economic issues contributing to insecurity. According to him, poverty, unemployment and poor governance have created conditions that allow criminal activities to thrive.
He advised authorities to invest more in education, healthcare, agriculture, electricity, infrastructure development, skills training and job creation. He said improving these sectors would provide opportunities for citizens and help reduce the factors driving insecurity across the country.
His remarks come at a time when concerns over security remain high in many parts of Nigeria, with reports of kidnappings, terrorist attacks and communal clashes continuing to affect lives, businesses and economic activities.
Kwankwaso maintained that a combination of stronger security measures and social development policies is needed to restore peace and stability across the country.