The federal government has called for increased support from the European Union (EU) to address Nigeria’s escalating security challenges.
Speaking at the “Road to Schuman Forum on Security and Defence” event, organized by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in collaboration with the EU, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, highlighted the global interconnectedness of security issues, Daily Trust reported.
Represented by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, Badaru emphasized that insecurity anywhere in the world ultimately impacts other nations. He noted that Nigeria is struggling with terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping, and argued that even a fraction of the resources allocated to regions like Ukraine could significantly aid Nigeria in combating these threats.
“Even a small percentage of the resources and funding allocated to other regions, like Ukraine, could significantly aid Nigeria in combating terrorism and banditry,” Badaru said. He expressed concern that Africa’s security challenges often receive less attention compared to conflicts in other parts of the world, despite the urgent need for support.
The National Coordinator of NCTC, Major General Adamu Garba Laka, stressed the necessity of collective efforts from stakeholders and partners to address emerging security threats not only in Nigeria but also across the ECOWAS region.
Ambassador Samuela Isopi, head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria, explained that the meeting aimed to gather insights and assessments on peace, security, and defence challenges facing Nigeria and its regional environment.
This event served as a precursor to the Schuman Security and Defence Forum, scheduled for May 28 and 29, 2024, in Brussels, Belgium.
Nigeria will participate alongside EU member states, partner countries, and international organizations to discuss and shape security and defence collaborations.
