How Northern Governors Can Tackle Insecurity— Col. Usman Ahmed (Rtd.)

Col. Usman Ahmed (Rtd.),is a seasoned security expert, former senior military officer and a fellow of Nigeria Institute of Security who has remained a consistent voice in Nigeria’s security discourse, offering strategic insights shaped by decades of operational and leadership experience within the Armed Forces.

Having served in key counter-insurgency theatres, including the North-East, he brings a practitioner’s perspective to the evolving challenges of banditry, insurgency, and internal security management across the country.

In this exclusive interview with THE WHISTLER Correspondent, Shafa’atu Suleiman, Col. Ahmed examines recent security sector reforms, including the withdrawal of police aides from VIPs, the appointment of the former Chief of Defence Staff as Minister of Defence, regional security funding initiatives by Northern Governors, and the Sokoto State Government’s multi-layered response to insecurity.
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He also outlines expectations for improved security outcomes in 2026 and offers strategic counsel on strengthening Nigeria’s defence. EXCERPT

Do You Believe The Withdrawal Of Police Aides From Vips Will Have A Meaningful Impact On Addressing Insecurity Across The Country?

The directive may be well-intentioned, but its overall impact on national insecurity will be limited. While withdrawing police aides from VIPs may marginally increase the number of officers available for conventional policing, it does not automatically translate into improved security outcomes.

Nigeria’s major security threats (insurgency, banditry and terrorism) are combat-oriented. By constitutional design and professional training, the Nigeria Police Force is not structured as a combat force. Under Section 214 of the Constitution and the Police Act, the police are primarily responsible for crime prevention through routine patrols, community policing, intelligence gathering, investigation and prosecution, as well as the maintenance of law and order.

Without adequate equipment, modern technology, and specialised training, redeploying police personnel from VIP protection to frontline duties will have minimal effect. What Nigeria needs is a holistic security architecture anchored on intelligence-driven operations, strong inter-agency collaboration, and a clear delineation of roles. Counter-insurgency operations should be led by the Armed Forces, while the police focus on internal security and crime prevention.

While the p *olicy may promote equity and curb excessive VIP protection, it must be complemented by sustained recruitment, improved welfare, modern weaponry, and technology-driven policing to meaningfully address insecurity nationwide.

Does The Appointment Of The Immediate Past Chief Of Defence Staff As Minister Of Defence Give Nigerians Confidence Of Better Performance In The Security Sector?

Yes, without any doubt. The appointment of General Christopher Musa is a well-deserved national recognition of his distinguished service and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity and stability. It comes at a critical time when the nation requires tested, strategic and disciplined leadership to reposition the defence sector.

Beyond his résumé, I speak from personal experience. I worked closely with General Musa in Maiduguri during my active service and know him to be calm under pressure, decisive, professional and deeply mission-focused. He understands both the operational realities on the ground and the strategic demands of high-level leadership.

As a former Chief of Defence Staff, he understands the system thoroughly and knows where reforms are urgently required. I expect tangible improvements in intelligence coordination, troop morale, operational efficiency and the accelerated adoption of modern defence technologies. Nigerians have hi *gh expectations, and based on his track record, I am confident he will deliver.

The Northern Governors Recently Resolved That Each State Should Contribute 1 Billion Naira As A Regional Security Fund. As A Security Expert, How Do You Assess This Decision?*

The decision by the Northern Governors to establish a 1 naira billion per state regional security fund is timely and commendable. It reflects a growing understanding that insecurity in the North is interconnected and requires collective responsibility rather than isolated state responses.

However, funding alone will not resolve insecurity. The effectiveness of this initiative will depend on transparent management, strategic deployment and strong coordination. Priority must be given to intelligence gathering, surveillance technology, logistics, mobility, rapid response capabilities and operational support for security agencies.

Equally important is regional coordination. Shared intelligence, harmonised operations and collaboration with federal security agencies are essential to avoid duplication and *ensure efficiency. Transparency and accountability must be central, with clear utilisation guidelines, regular audits and measurable performance indicators to build public trust.

In View Of The Expanding Security Challenges In Parts Of Sokoto State, What Concrete Steps Is The State Government Taking To Ensure Lasting Peace.

The protection of lives and property remains the highest priority of His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Aliyu. While the security challenges particularly banditry are part of a broader North-West crisis, the Sokoto State Government has adopted a proactive, coordinated and intelligence-driven response.

The government is working closely with federal security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Police, Air Force, Civil Defence and intelligence services. Joint operations have been intensified in vulnerable areas such as Isa, Sabon Birni, Tangaza, Gudu, Silame and parts of the western zone, including Yabo, Shagari, Kebbe, Dange Shuni and Tureta.

A recent operation in Sabon Birni Local Government Area illustrates the effectiveness of this collaboration. Acting on timely intelligence, security forces successfully repelled an attempted attack on traders travelling to a weekly market, neutralising several attackers and preventing the loss of innocent lives.

The government has also strengthened community-based intelligence through sustained engagement with traditional rulers, community leaders and vigilante groups. In addition, it continues to provide logistics, mobility, comm *unication equipment and welfare support to security personnel. Anyone found aiding or financing criminal networks will face the full weight of the law.

As The New Year Approaches, What Assurances Can Residents Expect Regarding Security In 2026?

While no responsible government can claim that insecurity will disappear overnight, residents of Sokoto State can expect measurable improvements in 2026.

Collaboration with federal agencies, traditional institutions and community leaders has been strengthened to enhance intelligence gathering and rapid response. The governor has consistently prioritised logistics, welfare, and operational support for security personnel, recognising that a motivated force is essential for effective security delivery.

The administration is also addressing the socio-economic drivers of insecurity through youth empowerment, job creation, and social intervention programmes. With sustained citizen cooperation and unwavering government commitment, 2026 will be a year of improved security, stability, and renewed public confidence across Sokoto State.

Having Served Under General Christopher Musa During Your Time In The Military, What Strategic Counsel Would You Offer Him As He Assumes Office As Nigeria’s Minister Of Defence

General Musa brings exceptional operational and strategic experience to this office. My counsel is rooted in shared service and a common commitment to Nigeria’s security.

Priority should be given to strengthening collaboration across federal, state, and community levels. Modern security threats are complex and asymmetric, requiring seamless coordination among the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, and the police and sub-national governments.

I would also emphasise intelligence-led operations through investment in modern surveillance systems, data fusion, cyber capabilities, and real-time intelligence sharing. Equally critical is the welfare, training, and motivation of military personnel. A professional, well-equipped, and motivated force remains the backbone of any successful defence strategy.

With his experience, discipline, and calm leadership style, I am confident that General Musa will consolidate ongoing reforms and strengthen Nigeria’s defence architecture for lasting peace and stability.