Senate Holds North Central Security Summit to Tackle Rising Insecurity

The Senate convened a security summit on Thursday in Jos, Plateau State, focusing on the escalating insecurity in Nigeria’s North Central zone. The region, which includes Plateau, Niger, Kwara, Kogi, Benue, and Nasarawa states, has witnessed a sharp rise in violent incidents over the past decade. In Plateau alone, attacks on more than 420 communities have claimed over 12,000 lives.

Senator Abba Moro, leading the Senate delegation, emphasized that national security is a collective responsibility that extends beyond the military and security agencies. He highlighted the severe impact of insurgency, militancy, banditry, kidnapping, and other security threats across the country. Moro explained that the summit aims to generate practical solutions through input from security experts, traditional leaders, community representatives, civil society organizations, and victims of violence.

“Insights gathered here will inform the Senate’s recommendations, shaping legislative action, budget priorities, and policy reforms to strengthen our national security framework,” Moro stated. He added that the summit’s outcomes will support a more comprehensive and sustainable security policy, calling on communities, state governments, the private sector, and the federal government to work collaboratively to address evolving threats.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, represented by Deputy Josephine Piyo, condemned the loss of lives and livelihoods, attributing insecurity to disputes over land and political influence, population pressures, and criminal activities. He urged citizens to move beyond blame and unite against the persistent threats. The one-day summit gathered traditional rulers, youth groups, opinion leaders, academics, and security officials, who are expected to propose strategies to restore peace and stability across the North Central region.