Unimaid

By Godwill Nandul Ponman

Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, continues to grapple with daunting security challenges that directly undermine its development prospects. From terrorism and banditry to kidnappings and communal clashes, insecurity has created ripple effects across the economy, stifling growth, discouraging investment, and deepening poverty. For the nation to achieve sustainable economic progress, addressing these threats must remain a top priority.

The impact of insecurity on Nigeria’s economy is far-reaching. It has resulted in devastating loss of lives and property. Communities are destroyed, families are displaced, and businesses are forced to close, translating into enormous human and economic costs. In addition, insecurity disrupts day-to-day economic activities. Agriculture—the backbone of Nigeria’s economy—is particularly vulnerable, with farmers often unable to access their lands due to attacks. Similarly, trade and commerce suffer frequent interruptions, weakening productivity and slowing down growth.

Another key consequence of insecurity is its impact on investment. Both domestic and foreign investors naturally seek stable environments to channel their resources, but persistent unrest creates a climate of uncertainty that discourages capital inflows and limits development opportunities. Furthermore, the government spends heavily on security operations, stretching limited resources. Funds that should be invested in education, healthcare, and infrastructure are instead redirected to military and security interventions, slowing down development in critical sectors.

Resolving these security issues is essential for creating an enabling environment for economic transformation. One critical step is addressing poverty and unemployment, which fuel crime and unrest. Expanding economic empowerment programmes, creating jobs, and investing in skills development will help reduce the desperation that drives young people toward violent groups. When citizens are economically engaged, the lure of joining criminal gangs or insurgent movements diminishes significantly.

Another equally important measure is strengthening security governance. This requires reforming security institutions, improving intelligence gathering and coordination, and equipping personnel with the training and resources needed to act effectively. Better governance and accountability within security agencies will translate to quicker, more decisive responses to threats and a stronger overall security architecture.

Community engagement must also be considered a crucial pillar of any security strategy. Building trust between local communities and security agencies through grassroots partnerships, dialogue, and community policing fosters cooperation. When citizens feel included and protected, they are more likely to share vital information, collaborate in maintaining peace, and support government initiatives aimed at securing their environment.

Regional and international cooperation is equally vital. Many of the security threats confronting Nigeria, including terrorism, arms trafficking, and organized crime, are transnational in nature. Close collaboration with neighbouring countries and global partners strengthens border protection and helps to disrupt cross-border criminal networks. Without such partnerships, national efforts remain limited in their impact.

The economic benefits of resolving insecurity are enormous. A safer Nigeria will naturally attract both foreign and domestic investment, enabling new industries to emerge and existing businesses to expand. Enhanced security also creates an environment where commerce can thrive, agriculture can flourish, and productivity can rise. In addition, reducing the need for excessive security spending allows government resources to be redirected toward development priorities such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

Stability therefore not only promotes peace but also creates fiscal space for long-term growth. It provides the foundation for sustained economic reforms and fosters an environment where human capital can be developed and innovation encouraged. Countries that have achieved economic stability after addressing security challenges prove the connection between peace and prosperity.

Rwanda stands out as an example where post-conflict security reforms and community-based initiatives created a safer environment that contributed to impressive economic growth. Similarly, Ghana’s relative stability has helped it attract foreign investment and achieve steady development over the years. These cases highlight the fact that security is not merely a national concern but a prerequisite for broader economic progress.

Nigeria can achieve the same results. With the right policies, genuine political will, and committed partnerships, the country can overcome its insecurity challenges and lay the foundation for a more stable and prosperous future. The journey will not be easy, but the benefits far outweigh the costs of continued insecurity.

Moving forward, it is essential that Nigeria develops a comprehensive national security strategy that directly tackles the root causes of insecurity while simultaneously strengthening security institutions. This must include a renewed focus on intelligence gathering, better coordination among agencies, and increased investment in training and equipment for security personnel. At the same time, greater engagement with communities will ensure that local populations remain active participants in the quest for peace.

Collaboration with neighbouring states and international partners must also remain a priority. Nigeria cannot operate in isolation in the fight against terrorism and cross-border crime. Shared intelligence, joint operations, and stronger diplomatic ties will strengthen the overall security framework and boost the chances of success.

Conclusively, peace and stability are not just security goals but economic imperatives. Nigeria’s path to prosperity depends on its ability to secure its people, protect its resources, and build an environment where development can truly thrive. Without addressing insecurity, all other economic reforms will remain fragile and unsustainable. Security must therefore be seen as the cornerstone upon which the nation’s long-term growth and stability are built.


Godwill Nandul Ponman, Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) has acknowledged receipt of a formal petition alleging medical negligence and unprofessional conduct in the treatment of Alhaji Nuhu Dantani, who died at the facility on March 31, 2026.

In an official letter dated April 17, 2026, and signed by the Director of Administration, Idriss Omar, on behalf of the Chief Medical Director, Prof. A. Ahidjo, the hospital management confirmed that an internal investigation has been initiated into the circumstances surrounding the death.

The petition was filed by Hamza N. Dantani Esq. of Potent Attorneys in Abuja, who is acting on behalf of the deceased’s family. The legal complaint cites systemic failure and demands accountability for the loss of the elder statesman, who was admitted under Hospital Number 760494.

In the hospital’s response addressed to the family’s legal counsel, management extended “heartfelt condolences” and acknowledged the severity of the allegations.

“We understand the gravity of the concerns raised and wish to assure you that the Hospital takes allegations of medical negligence and unprofessional conduct seriously,” the statement read in part. “A thorough investigation into the matter has been initiated, and appropriate steps will be taken to ensure that justice is served.”

The hospital has not disclosed the details of the specific clinical incident or the nature of the alleged negligence pending the outcome of the investigation. The case has highlighted patient safety protocols at one of Northeast Nigeria’s largest tertiary healthcare institutions.

By Kasim Isa Muhammad

The Vice-Chancellor University of Maiduguri, Prof. Mohammed Laminu Mele, has approved the appointment of Prof. Abubakar Mu’azu as pioneer Dean, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies (FCM).

The faculty, which has Departments of Mass Communication, Journalism and Media Studies, Broadcasting, Public Relations, Advertising, Development Communication as well as Multimedia and Film Studies, was established by the Senate of the University at its 319th Regular Meeting held on July 31, 2025.

Therefore, the appointment, which is on acing capacity, would last for a period of six months with effect from 9th September, 2025, and it may be renewed subject to satisfactory performance.

The letter, which was signed by the Registrar of the University Ahmad Lawan, stated that the new dean “will responsible to the Vice-Chancellor for day-to-day administration of the faculty”, adding that further details of the functions of the dean were “contained in the Schedule 3, Section 8(3) – 5 University of Maidugur Act, CAP.U10 as may be determined from time to time by the Vice-Chancellor”.

Prof. Mu’azu is renown communication scholar with interests in mass communication, media and peace studies.

He was the immediate past Director of the University’s Centre for Peace, Diplomatic and Development Studies (CPDDS) and former Director Remedial Studies of the University and subdean of the Faculty of Social Sciences.

According to Dr. Abdulmutallib A. Abubakar the university management has made a right decision for appointment Prof. Mu’azu who would bring wealth of experience and connection in order to develop the new faculty.

He further added that the staff and students of the faculty would give him all the necessary cooperation and supports to succeed.