A University of Ibadan professor has urged the federal government to adopt non‑kinetic security approaches and psychological insights to tackle Nigeria’s escalating banditry and insurgency.
The call comes amid a growing perception that conventional military operations alone are insufficient to curb the violence that has plagued the north‑central and north‑western regions of the country. Banditry and insurgent attacks have increased over the past few years, leaving communities vulnerable and disrupting economic activity.
According to the professor, a shift toward non‑kinetic methods—such as community policing, targeted intelligence gathering, and socio‑economic development programmes—could reduce the appeal of criminal and militant groups. These measures, the academic argues, would complement existing security operations rather than replace them.
In addition, the professor stresses the importance of psychological insights. Understanding the motivations, grievances, and social dynamics that drive individuals to join bandit or insurgent groups could help design interventions that address root causes and build resilience within affected communities.
The recommendation follows the government’s continued reliance on military force to confront armed groups. By integrating non‑kinetic strategies and psychological analysis, the professor suggests the state could achieve more sustainable peace and security outcomes.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
