A retired senior officer of the Nigerian Air Force, Sayo Olatunde, has called for a comprehensive and long-term strategy to address Nigeria’s growing insecurity.
Olatunde made the call in Abuja during the launch of his book, *“Beyond the Symptoms: Tackling the Root of Nigeria’s Insecurity”*, where he stressed the need to confront the underlying causes of insecurity rather than focusing on short-term fixes.
The former Chief of Defence Policy and Plans noted that persistent security challenges across the country indicate that Nigeria has largely been addressing surface-level issues instead of tackling foundational problems.
According to him, the book identifies 17 key drivers of insecurity, with particular emphasis on five major factors—corruption, political division, weak border control, gaps in the defence structure, and an underperforming police system.
He explained that these issues contribute significantly to the proliferation of arms, the movement of foreign fighters, and the rise of illegal economic activities such as unregulated mining.
Olatunde stressed that while identifying these root causes is important, meaningful progress depends on strong political will and consistent implementation of reforms.
He called for a coordinated national effort built on integrity, institutional reforms, and sustained commitment to restore peace and stability.
The book launch drew notable personalities, including Benito Ozigbo, who commended the work as timely and solution-oriented.
Ozigbo also pledged financial support towards promoting the ideas presented in the book and encouraging public engagement on security issues.
The book was reviewed by Garba Wahab, a retired Major General and former Director-General of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, who described it as insightful and well-researched.
He highlighted the use of analytical tools such as system mapping, case studies, and structured frameworks in explaining Nigeria’s security challenges.
The event was attended by several current and former military leaders, as well as top government officials.
Among them were the Minister of Interior, Olubinmi Tunji-Ojo, who chaired the occasion, and the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, who served as Special Guest of Honour.
The gathering underscored growing national concern over insecurity and the need for deeper, more strategic solutions.
