The Civil Society Organisations on Community Advancement and Humanitarian Empowerment Initiative (CSCHEI) has called on the National Security Adviser (NSA) and intelligence institutions to engage with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Community-Based Organisations (CBOs), Faith-Based Organisations (FBOs), and traditional leaders in addressing the growing insecurity in Nigeria.
In a statement released by Director-General, Kunle Yusuff, MON, CSCHEI emphasised the need for a collaborative approach to tackle the complex issues surrounding insecurity in the nation.
The organisation believed that “a collaborative approach involving all stakeholders is essential to addressing the root causes of these challenges.”
“By uniting various stakeholders, including grassroots entities and community leaders, Nigeria can develop effective and sustainable solutions.”
CSCHEI urged the NSA to “leverage the expertise and networks of CSOs, CBOs, FBOs, and traditional rulers” to enhance community engagement and trust-building initiatives, promote dialogue and conflict resolution mechanisms, and support grassroots peacebuilding programmes.
The organisation highlighted the troubling recent attacks in Plateau, Benue, Kwara, and Niger States, stressing the importance of immediate and decisive action from the Federal Government to mitigate these security threats.
“If left unchecked, these security challenges could undermine the government’s efforts to attract foreign investment,” they warned.
“The safety and well-being of Nigerians must take precedence over partisan interests. We are prepared to collaborate with the government to implement inclusive strategies that foster a culture of peace and stability.”
Yusuff, however, maintained that the call for action underscored the necessity for the government to work closely with accredited Civil Society Organisations to enhance security measures, which are vital for attracting foreign investment and ensuring national development.