Former Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai has called for enhanced professionalism in the nation’s security architecture to effectively contain the surge in security menace that seem unabated.
Buratai gave the advice while delivering a lecture during the 17th yearly conference of the Institute of Security Nigeria (ISN), stressing that acquisition of requisite skills, attained through cutting edge training of security personnel, with “evidence-based solutions for emerging security challenges,” holds the ace in subduing terrorism and other unsavory issues besetting the nation’s economic development and growth.
As the Second Patron of ISN, the former Army chief said “quality and integrity are paramount” in building an architecture that can cope adequately with the current nation’s security challenges.
According to Buratai, “We must prioritize professional development, enhanced manpower skills through cutting-edge training, forge strategic partnerships and foster collaboration among agencies, governments and stakeholders”.
He called for a concerted effort to intensified research and innovation; community engagements; increased public awareness; and participation in security matters as everyday affairs if the country must win the war against insecurity.
“Together, we can combat terrorism, insurgency, and cybercrime” but we also need to “protect critical infrastructure, national assets, uphold human rights and the rule of law” he added.
The former Military commander harped on review of national policy on security and growth inducing resources allocation, at the same time calling on government on need for greater collaboration with international partners through knowledge sharing to strengthen the nation capacity.
Buratai said, “Let us unite to build a secure Nigeria, where citizens live without fear and prosperity thrives,” he added.
In his remarks, Professor Rahman Bello, who chaired the event, noted that national security is paramount in the attainment of socio-economic development of the country, on a sustainable basis.