By Oluwabukola Mary Sunmoni
Security is the foundation upon which every society is built. When citizens feel safe, businesses grow, schools function effectively, farmers cultivate their lands, and communities thrive. However, when insecurity becomes widespread, development slows, trust in institutions weakens, and fear gradually replaces hope.
Over the past few weeks, Nigeria has once again witnessed a series of troubling security incidents that underscore the magnitude of the challenge confronting the nation.
From the killing of three Federal Road Safety Corps officers in Kebbi State to the continued wave of kidnappings across Oyo State and other parts of the country, insecurity remains one of Nigeria’s most pressing concerns.
Recent reports show that kidnapping has become one of the fastest-growing criminal enterprises in the country. According to data compiled by security analysts, at least 23,187 people were kidnapped across Nigeria between 2020 and 2025, while more than 3,000 abduction cases were recorded in 2025 alone. Between January and April 2025, no fewer than 1,505 abduction incidents were documented nationwide.
The growing prevalence of kidnapping is reflected in public perception. An Afrobarometer survey found that 79 percent of Nigerians consider kidnapping a serious national problem, while one-third of respondents said they personally know someone who has been abducted within the last five years. Additionally, 63 percent reported feeling unsafe either in their homes or communities at some point during the previous year. (Afrobarometer)
The stories dominating national conversations in recent weeks reveal how insecurity is affecting virtually every part of the country. In Kebbi State, armed bandits reportedly ambushed and killed three FRSC officers performing official duties.
The attack followed a series of deadly assaults on security personnel in the same region. In Oyo State, controversy surrounded the abduction of residents in Oorelope Local Government Area, prompting interventions from community leaders, security agencies, and activist Sunday Igboho.
These incidents demonstrate that insecurity is no longer confined to remote rural communities; it is increasingly becoming a national challenge that cuts across regions and social classes.
Yet amid the disturbing headlines, there are also signs that security operations can produce meaningful results. The Nigerian Army recently announced the rescue of 360 women and children abducted by terrorists in Ngoshe, Borno State. The operation, carried out by troops of Operation Hadin Kai and Special Operations Forces, highlights the importance of intelligence-driven security interventions and coordinated military efforts.
The consequences of insecurity extend beyond the immediate loss of lives and property. Farmers in several parts of the country have abandoned farmlands due to fear of attacks. Research indicates that insecurity significantly reduces agricultural output, leading to lower food production and contributing to rising food prices.
A recent study found that increases in insecurity directly reduce both crop and livestock production, with serious implications for food security and economic stability. (arXiv)
Education has also suffered greatly. School kidnappings continue to undermine learning and discourage attendance in vulnerable communities. Human rights organisations report that thousands of children have been affected by school-related abductions over the past decade, while many schools have been forced to close temporarily because of security threats.
For states such as Kwara, which have traditionally enjoyed relative peace compared to some northern states, recent security concerns serve as a warning that no community is entirely immune. The arrest of suspected kidnapping gang leaders and the recovery of weapons by security agencies in Kwara demonstrate both the presence of criminal threats and the need for sustained vigilance.
The debate surrounding the proposed State Police Bill recently passed by the Senate further reflects growing public demand for innovative solutions. Supporters argue that decentralised policing could improve intelligence gathering and response times, while critics caution against potential political abuse.
Regardless of the approach adopted, many experts agree that security cannot be achieved through force alone. Effective governance, economic opportunities, community engagement, intelligence sharing, and judicial accountability must all form part of a comprehensive strategy.
Ultimately, insecurity is more than a security problem; it is a development problem. It affects investment, education, agriculture, healthcare, and national cohesion.
Every kidnapping victim represents a family in distress. Every attack on security personnel weakens public confidence. Every community forced to live in fear loses part of its economic and social potential.
As Nigeria continues to confront these challenges, the responsibility does not rest solely with government and security agencies. Community leaders, traditional institutions, religious organisations, civil society groups, and citizens all have roles to play in building safer communities.
The fight against insecurity requires collective commitment, sustained political will, and policies that address both the symptoms and root causes of violence.
Until Nigerians can travel, work, farm, learn, and sleep without fear, the conversation about insecurity will remain at the centre of the nation’s development agenda.
