By Pan Afric Reporters NASS-Abuja 26 June,2025
In a decisive move to address Nigeria’s deepening insecurity, the Senate has unveiled plans to embark on strategic regional meetings with critical stakeholders across the six geo-political zones. The initiative is aimed at uncovering the root causes of violence and insecurity and developing practical, people-driven solutions to restore lasting peace and national stability.
Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on National Security Summit held on Wednesday at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, Senate Leader and Chairman of the committee, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, emphasized that no volume of investment in infrastructure would yield meaningful results if peace and security remain elusive.
“Transforming pervasive insecurity into enduring peace is at the heart of this national security summit,” Bamidele declared. “Our goal is to ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of location or status, can live and work in peace.”
The Senate had earlier constituted a 20-member committee to lead the national security discourse, with Senator Bamidele at the helm. Other members include Senate Chief Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno; Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro; Minority Whip, Senator Osita Ngwu; and key security-related committee chairs such as Senators Adams Oshiomhole (Interior), Ahmad Malam-Madori (Police Affairs), Gbenga Daniel (Navy), Ahmed Lawan (Defence), and Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (Army).
Sen. Bamidele according to a press release e-signed by the Directorate of Media and Public Affairs,
Office of the Leader of the Senate
Federal Republic of Nigeria outlined the committee’s multi-pronged approach, which includes engaging both institutional stakeholders and victims of armed violence directly in their communities.
“We will meet people on the ground, listen to their fears, their experiences, and their suggestions,” he said. “This isn’t just about official briefings. It’s about hearing from those who live this reality every day.”
The Senator painted a stark picture of Nigeria’s current security challenges, citing the spread of violent conflicts and crimes previously localized to specific regions. From banditry and terrorism in the North, to separatist unrest and ritual killings in the South, to piracy and oil theft in the coastal regions, he said, “No region is unaffected.”
“Insecurity in the South-west is now marked by increasing ritual killings. The South-east grapples with separatist violence and rampant kidnapping. The North-central faces worsening farmers-herders clashes, while the South-south continues to battle oil theft, sea robbery, and vandalism of national assets,” Bamidele stated.
The committee aims to convene a national security summit that includes a broad spectrum of Nigerian society: traditional rulers, local governments, the military, intelligence agencies, civil society, the media, and concerned citizens with constructive ideas.
“Our duty is clear,” Bamidele concluded. “Nigeria can only be on the path of development and prosperity when peace and unity are guaranteed. We are committed to ensuring that this process leads to concrete solutions and a safer, stronger nation.”
The Senate’s bold move signals a renewed commitment to confronting Nigeria’s security crisis head-on — not with rhetoric, but with regional engagement, national dialogue, and inclusive action.
