By George Omagbemi Sylvester
Former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Sir Mike Okiro, has attributed Nigeria’s worsening insecurity to governance failures, warning that government actions and inactions have contributed significantly to the persistent wave of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and violent crimes across the country.
Okiro made the remarks on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, during a security and governance forum in Abuja, where he stressed that tackling insecurity requires more than military operations.
According to him, poor governance, unemployment, poverty, weak intelligence gathering and inadequate implementation of security policies have created an enabling environment for criminal groups to thrive.
The former police chief argued that successive governments have not invested sufficiently in intelligence-led policing, community engagement and the welfare of security personnel.
He maintained that addressing the root causes of insecurity (including youth unemployment, social injustice and economic hardship) is essential to achieving lasting peace and stability.
Okiro further urged the Federal Government to strengthen collaboration among security agencies, traditional rulers, local communities and state governments while ensuring that security institutions are properly funded, equipped and motivated to effectively discharge their constitutional responsibilities.
He also called for greater accountability in the management of security resources, insisting that transparent governance, effective leadership and citizens’ trust remain critical to defeating criminal networks.
According to him, restoring public confidence in government institutions will play a vital role in reversing Nigeria’s growing security challenges and safeguarding lives and property across the country.
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