How banditry, terrorism in northern Nigeria can be tackled

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, says the scourge of insecurity that plagues the northern part of Nigeria can be addressed through comprehensive social and educational reform, investment in critical social amenities and infrastructural facilities.

Zulum made this known in a keynote address at the 10th Annual Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture and Merit Award on Saturday in Maiduguri.

Zulum spoke on the theme, ‘Creating Pathways for Peace: Tackling Banditry and Insurgency through Good Governance for Sustainable Development’.

He described the theme as relevant and timely.

He stated that Infrastructural development, healthcare enhancement, empowerment and job creation would free the beleaguered region from the shackles of insecurity.

“It highlights the challenges we have faced over the years, particularly in the wake of Boko Haram crisis. It is evident that good governance is crucial in curbing future insurgencies,” he added.

The governor noted that while his administration combined both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to addressing the Boko Haram crisis, the root causes of insurgency have also been looked into critically.

According to him, in a bid to curtail banditry, insurgency and other forms of insecurity, the Borno State Government has undertaken projects in many key sectors.

“Here in Borno State, we have undertaken various projects since assuming office with the aim of promoting good governance and tackling all forms of insecurity,” Zulum said.

Chairman Board of Trustees, Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, (SABMF) and former Governor of Niger State, Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, said the rise of banditry and other forms of insecurity is a direct consequence of deep-rooted socio-economic and governance issues.