By Mokobia Rita.
ASBA/Nigeria: Concern over Nigeria’s worsening security challenges took centre stage at the 7th edition of the Annual Lecture of the Maris Trust Council, where policymakers, security experts, and thought leaders converged to examine the theme: “Insecurity: Bane of Nigeria’s Unity and Progress.”
The keynote address, delivered by former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (CFR), dominated discussions with a compelling call for structural reforms, economic revitalization, and strategic collaboration to address the country’s deepening insecurity.
General Irabor described the Maris Lecture Series as a vital intellectual platform that fosters robust debate, knowledge exchange, and policy-shaping conversations capable of driving national development. He commended the Maris Trust Council for sustaining an initiative that promotes ideas geared towards growth and humanity.
Delving into the core issues, the former defence chief stressed that insecurity in Nigeria has evolved beyond isolated incidents into a systemic crisis. According to him, the alarming scale of violence and criminality underscores the urgent need for a coordinated national response.
He noted that, “Nigeria’s insecurity is no longer random,” citing disturbing figures of lives lost and widespread abductions, which he said continue to erode public confidence and national stability. He emphasized that without deliberate efforts to reduce unemployment and expand economic opportunities, the country risks further descent into chaos.
General Irabor placed particular emphasis on youth unemployment, identifying it as a critical driver of insecurity. He urged both federal and state governments to prioritize job creation and youth empowerment initiatives as sustainable solutions to the crisis. According to him, engaging young people productively would significantly reduce their vulnerability to criminal activities.
Highlighting the role of academia and intellectuals, he called for evidence-based research that can inform policy decisions and contribute meaningfully to sustainable development. He further advocated comprehensive security sector reforms, noting that Nigeria must adopt a more inclusive and adaptive national security model capable of addressing contemporary threats.
Turning attention to Delta State, General Irabor commended the administration of Sheriff Oborevwori for fostering a relatively secure environment and driving infrastructural development. He specifically praised the state’s road construction efforts, describing them as commendable when compared to other parts of the country.
However, he cautioned that emerging urban challenges require urgent attention. He pointed to the growing congestion in the state capital, attributing it partly to the increasing number of tricycles (popularly known as Keke Napep), which he said is gradually turning parts of the city into disorderly spaces. He advised the government to implement better urban planning measures while intensifying youth-focused empowerment programs.
The Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, who was represented at the event by the Commissioner for Secondary Education, Kingsley Ashibuogwu, reiterated the state government’s commitment to tackling insecurity through inclusive governance and social development.
In his address, the governor described insecurity as one of the greatest threats to Nigeria’s collective existence, noting that it weakens national cohesion, erodes trust, and undermines sustainable development. He stressed that insecurity breeds fear and instability, which ultimately hinder economic and social progress.
“Security is not just the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice, equity, and opportunity,” he stated, underscoring the need for a holistic approach to national security.
The governor commended the Maris Trust Council for its foresight in convening the lecture, adding that such dialogues are essential in generating practical solutions to complex national challenges. He also expressed confidence in the expertise of General Irabor, describing him as a seasoned professional with deep understanding of Nigeria’s security landscape.
Earlier in his remarks, the organizer of the event, Fidelis Egugbo, expressed appreciation to participants and stakeholders for their presence and contributions. He noted that the continued success of the lecture series reflects a shared commitment to nation-building and constructive engagement.
Egugbo emphasized that the Maris Trust Council remains dedicated to promoting conversations that inspire sustainable development and national unity, while encouraging citizens to play active roles in addressing societal challenges.
The event drew a diverse audience, including government officials, academics, security practitioners, and members of civil society, all united by a common goal of finding lasting solutions to Nigeria’s insecurity crisis.
As deliberations concluded, a resounding consensus emerged: addressing insecurity in Nigeria requires a multi-dimensional approach—one that combines economic empowerment, institutional reforms, inclusive governance, and active citizen participation.
The 7th Maris Annual Lecture not only highlighted the gravity of Nigeria’s security challenges but also reinforced the urgent need for collective action to safeguard the nation’s unity and secure its future.
