Nigeria’s search for innovative approaches to its escalating security challenges took centre stage at the weekend as retired Colonel Ahmed Usman, Special Adviser on Security Matters to Sokoto Governor Ahmed Aliyu, was inducted as a Fellow of the Institute of Security, Nigeria.
The recognition was conferred during the Institute’s 18th Annual International Security Conference at the University of Lagos. Reflecting on the honour in a statement on Sunday, Usman described the fellowship as “a distinguished privilege” and a reminder of his continuing responsibility to support national stability.
He credited Governor Aliyu for fostering the reforms that have shaped Sokoto’s evolving security framework. Central among these is the State Security Coordination Centre, designed to improve cooperation between official security agencies and local vigilante networks under the state’s Safe Haven initiative. Usman said the programme has enhanced response capabilities and enabled the training of over 2,000 personnel in intelligence gathering, human rights principles and contemporary policing skills.
Usman outlined future priorities including expanded intelligence integration, community policing hubs and youth programmes aimed at reducing exposure to radicalisation. “The fellowship energises my commitment to research, capacity building and strengthening national collaborations,” he said.
Delivering remarks at the conference, the Institute’s President, Prof. James Olowokudejo, said Nigeria must embrace more agile and technologically advanced methods if it is to effectively counter emerging threats. He stressed the need for continuous professional development and urged political leaders to prioritise funding for frontline agencies.
Retired General Olu Bajowa, the Institute’s Patron, echoed this view, arguing that Nigeria’s security architecture must undergo bold, intelligence-led reform. He highlighted community involvement and modern technology as central to restoring stability.
Former Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt-General Tukur Buratai, also addressed the gathering, calling for strengthened community-oriented security initiatives and ongoing training for personnel. He added that tackling poverty, unemployment and radicalisation remained essential to addressing the root causes of insecurity. Buratai also praised local peace-building efforts that combine community and spiritual support structures with conventional strategies.
