The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has called for a comprehensive and whole of society approach in tackling security challenges facing the nation.
He said such measures must address the root causes of insecurity which includes poverty and economic marginalization.
This he said would help societies build resilient to exploitation and radicalisation by terrorists.
Ribadu stated this at the opening of the UK-Nigeria Security Defence Partnership Dialogue, organised by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) on Wednesday in Abuja.
According to him, it is incumbent on us to reflect critically on the evolving nature of contemporary security threats and identify innovative strategies and partnerships to effectively address them.
“Our dialogue must be guided by a shared commitment to promoting regional stability, countering violent extremism, and enhancing resilience againat emerging non-traditional security challenges confronting our nations is both diverse and formidable.
“In response, it is imperative that we adopt a holistic and forward-looking approach that leverages the full spectrum of our respective capabilities and expertise.
“Moreover, the nexus between security and development remains intrinsic to our collective efforts to foster sustainable peace and prosperity.
“It is imperative that we adopt a comprehensive and integrated approach that addresses the root causes of insecurity, promotes inclusive economic growth, and empowers marginalized communities to build societies resilient to exploitation and radicalisation,” he said.
He said the dialogue serves as a pivotal platform for frank and constructive discussions on a wide array of contemporary security challenges confronting Nigeria and the international community at large.
According to him, in an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the importance of robust multilateral cooperation and information sharing cannot be overstated.
“It is through forums such as this that we reaffirm our collective resolve to confront emerging threats, adapt to evolving security dynamics, and uphold the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
“The first edition was held in London from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2, 2022.
“During the Dialogue, several commitments were made which centred on ways of strengthening collaboration in the areas of defence cooperation, countering terrorism, violent extremism, organised crime and illicit financial flows as well as enhancing maritime security among others.
“Therefore, it is pertinent to assess the level of implementation of the commitments made by both countries.
“It is also vital to review the commitments made in order to identify current areas of priority in line with prevailing issues and extant national objectives,” he said.
In his remarks, the UK National Security Adviser, Tim Barrow, represented by his Deputy, Dame Sarah Macintosh, said the Uk operates in a relationship of mutual respect and supportiveness and share a determination to make its contributions separately and together to a better world and to peace, security, stability and prosperity at all.
He said the two countries can through this security and defence partnership and dialogue, advance those shared objectives and deepen partnership and friendship to build on their national security.
