Centre Advocates Non-Kinetic Strategies to Address Insecurity

A Nigerian policy and development centre has called for a renewed focus on non-kinetic approaches to tackling the country’s persistent security challenges, emphasizing the need for economic and social interventions to complement military efforts.

The centre, in a statement issued on Tuesday, stressed that sustainable peace cannot be achieved through force alone, urging policymakers to prioritize measures that address the root causes of violence and criminality. It highlighted youth unemployment, poverty, and social exclusion as critical drivers of insecurity.

According to the organisation, expanding job opportunities for young people, strengthening social welfare programmes, and fostering a more vibrant and inclusive economy are essential steps toward reducing crime and instability. The centre argued that economic empowerment and improved living conditions would help deter vulnerable individuals from engaging in unlawful activities.

“Insecurity is deeply connected to socio-economic realities,” the statement read. “While kinetic measures may provide short-term relief, long-term stability depends on creating opportunities, reducing inequality, and restoring hope for millions of Nigerians, especially the youth.”

The group further urged government at all levels to invest more heavily in education, skills development, and entrepreneurship initiatives. It noted that equipping young Nigerians with marketable skills and access to finance could significantly lower the appeal of criminal networks.

The centre also called for enhanced collaboration between government agencies, the private sector, and civil society to implement policies capable of stimulating economic growth and social cohesion. It underscored the importance of community-based programmes, dialogue, and trust-building in preventing conflict.

Security experts and development advocates have increasingly echoed similar views, warning that overreliance on military responses without parallel socio-economic reforms may limit progress in addressing Nigeria’s complex security landscape.

The latest appeal adds to ongoing national conversations about adopting holistic strategies that combine security operations with economic development and social protection to achieve lasting peace.