In a compelling address at Federal University Gusau (FUGUS), Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, spotlighted the urgent need to address ungoverned spaces to combat insecurity and educational instability in Nigeria.
Delivering a convocation lecture titled “Insecurity and Educational Instability in Nigeria:
The Way Forward,” Governor Radda, drawing from his background as a former teacher, underscored the global nature of insecurity, mentioning conflicts in Ukraine, Israel, and Sudan.
He highlighted Nigeria’s rank of 144th on the Global Peace Index, emphasizing the nation’s severe internal security issues.
Governor Radda detailed the historical roots of Nigeria’s insecurity, from colonialism to contemporary challenges like Boko Haram.
He emphasized the impact of the Chibok Girls’ abduction on education and noted that over 10% of schools in Katsina remain abandoned due to persistent insecurity.
Focusing on solutions, Governor Radda stressed the importance of addressing ungoverned spaces where criminals operate freely.
“Reducing ungoverned spaces will be key to intelligence gathering, rapid response efforts, and community inclusion in the fight against insecurity in Nigeria,” he asserted. He called for better policing, increased security personnel, and the integration of local security structures.
He also highlighted socio-economic development as crucial, advocating for investments in education and skills acquisition in underserved communities to tackle the root causes of criminal recruitment.
Governor Radda concluded with a call to action for collaboration between the government and stakeholders to ensure a secure and stable learning environment for future generations.
The event was attended by dignitaries including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s representative, Prof. (Emeritus) Abubakar Sani Sambo, and Zamfara State Governor, Dr. Dauda Lawal, among others.
Press Released <span;>Signed By Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
<span;>Chief Press Secretary to Katsina State Governor