By Uthman Salaudeen
A public affairs analyst, Comrade Aleshinloye Olayiwola Ridwan, has called on governments at all levels to address the root causes of insecurity in Nigeria, warning that reactive measures alone will not solve the country’s worsening security challenges.
He made the call today during SBS FM newspaper review program, monitored by reporter Uthman Salaudeen.
Speaking on recent developments, Aleshinloye said insecurity has become a daily reality across the country, stressing the need for proactive and practical solutions.
He commended Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for efforts to tackle insecurity but argued that current funding remains inadequate.
“The ₦350 million monthly security vote for Kwara is not enough to tackle the scale of insecurity we are facing, especially when compared to states like Lagos receiving close to ₦2 billion,” he said.
The analyst identified illegal mining as one of the major drivers of insecurity and called for its permanent clampdown. He also advocated policies aimed at reducing poverty and unemployment, including making primary and secondary education more accessible.
“Free and accessible education will reduce the number of out-of-school children, while skill acquisition programmes for youths will help curb unemployment and, by extension, insecurity,” he noted.
He further urged stronger collaboration between community leaders, religious bodies, youths and security agencies, alongside regular training for local security operatives to improve intelligence gathering and response.
On education, Aleshinloye praised ongoing reform efforts by the Minister of Education, particularly the emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
He described the direction as vital for innovation and national development but cautioned against sidelining social sciences.
“Scrapping social sciences is not the best approach. It could undermine public administration and political stability,” he said, urging the government to prioritise practical, skills-driven learning that aligns with labour market needs.
On politics, the analyst expressed support for emerging opposition alliances, including the ADC-led coalition, noting that such collaboration could strengthen democratic competition and restore public confidence.
However, he warned that internal party crises could hinder the success of the alliance.
“If properly managed, the alliance can deepen democracy, but unresolved internal conflicts may make its objectives difficult to achieve,” he added.
