Cynthia Ezegwu
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, representing Ondo South, has warned that Nigeria’s fight against insurgency will remain ineffective unless citizens actively participate in national security efforts.
In a statement released on Friday, Ibrahim said patriotism expressed through trust, cooperation, and collective vigilance is a more powerful tool than military force in combating identity-driven conflicts. He stressed that the war against terrorism cannot be waged by the military alone, noting that public commitment is as crucial as tactical and operational strategies.
“Insurgents exploit social divisions, and only a united population can deny them the support they rely on,” he said, adding that modern counter-insurgency increasingly depends on Civil-Military Operations designed to build credibility and trust within affected communities.
Ibrahim cautioned that excessive use of force without community engagement could alienate civilians and provide insurgents with propaganda for recruitment. He emphasised that intelligence sharing, vigilance, and community support are key components in defeating terrorism.
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The senator also urged Nigerians to deepen their patriotism, describing it as essential for strengthening national resilience against both internal and external threats. “Unity is not merely symbolic but a strategic requirement in counter-insurgency operations,” he said.
His remarks come amid fresh attacks in some northern states. In Niger State, gunmen attacked St. Mary’s School in Papiri Community, Agwara Local Government Area, abducting an unconfirmed number of students and staff. Earlier, 24 students were kidnapped from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Sakaba Local Government Area, with one additional student later confirmed missing.
Ibrahim expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome its security challenges if the government, security agencies, and the public work together. “We shall overcome but only if we act together and put the country first,” he said.