Security Expert Victoria Ekhomu Calls for Holistic Reform to Address Nigeria's Security Challenges

Advocating for a Shift in Strategy

Victoria Ekhomu, a prominent security expert and President of the Association of Industrial Security and Safety Operators of Nigeria (AISSON), has publicly called for a fundamental shift in how the country approaches its persistent security challenges. In recent discussions regarding the state of national security, Ekhomu argued that an over-reliance on military intervention is insufficient to resolve the multifaceted threats facing Nigeria.

The Need for Comprehensive Reform

Ekhomu emphasized that the current security landscape, characterized by insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping, requires a more nuanced and sustainable strategy. She highlighted that military solutions, while necessary for immediate stabilization, do not address the underlying drivers of conflict. Her recommendations for a comprehensive reform framework include:

• Prioritizing intelligence-led policing and improved inter-agency cooperation.
• Investing in community-based security initiatives to foster trust and local intelligence gathering.
• Addressing socioeconomic disparities, such as unemployment and poverty, which often serve as recruitment tools for criminal and insurgent groups.
• Strengthening the judicial system to ensure the swift and effective prosecution of offenders.

Focusing on Long-Term Stability

According to Ekhomu, achieving lasting peace requires moving away from reactive measures toward proactive, long-term planning. She has frequently noted that 'security is a collective responsibility' that demands synergy between the government, private security sectors, and the citizenry. By integrating technological advancements with human intelligence and community involvement, Ekhomu suggests that Nigeria can build a more resilient security architecture capable of adapting to evolving threats.

Conclusion

The call for reform by experts like Ekhomu reflects a growing consensus among security analysts that military force alone cannot provide a permanent solution to Nigeria's security crisis. As the government continues to evaluate its national security policy, the emphasis on holistic, multi-dimensional strategies remains a central point of discussion for stakeholders aiming to restore stability across the country.