Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Henry Owen
The Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Bashir Dalhatu, has urged the Federal Government to adopt a dual strategy of negotiation and military force in the ongoing battle against insecurity across the country. According to him, this blended approach has produced meaningful results in several regions and could significantly improve national security outcomes if implemented more broadly.
Dalhatu, who spoke while assessing Nigeria’s current security landscape, explained that exclusive reliance on armed confrontation has not fully addressed the complex nature of terrorist and bandit networks. He argued that integrating targeted negotiations with sustained military pressure would provide a more holistic solution, helping to dismantle criminal structures while creating pathways for de-escalation in volatile areas.
He noted that in some communities, dialogue-based initiatives—often facilitated through traditional rulers, local leaders, and security agencies—have helped ease tensions, secure hostage releases, and reduce violent incidents. At the same time, he stressed that the government must not relent in deploying strong military action where necessary, especially against hardened criminal groups unwilling to engage in peaceful resolution.
Dalhatu maintained that insecurity in the country has become a national emergency requiring flexibility, innovation, and the willingness to adopt strategies proven to work elsewhere. He urged the Federal Government to study the successes recorded in regions where negotiation and force were applied side by side, emphasizing that a balanced approach would better protect citizens and support long-term peace-building efforts.
He also called for improved coordination among security agencies, enhanced intelligence gathering, and consistent government engagement with affected communities to restore trust and confidence. According to him, adopting a mixed strategy could help stabilize regions plagued by kidnapping, banditry, and insurgency, ultimately paving the way for economic recovery and social cohesion.
Dalhatu reaffirmed the ACF’s readiness to support initiatives that can lead to lasting peace in northern Nigeria, while appealing to the government to remain open to practical, people-centered solutions that prioritize the safety and well-being of Nigerians.
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