_By Comrade Kunle Sodipo FICSSM, MNIMN, ANIPR_
Nigeria’s battle against terrorism and violent crimes is like pouring new wine into old wineskins—it demands fresh strategies, bold choices, and a refusal to cluse to the past. As Boko Haram’s shadows shrink and kidnappers face stiffer resistance, the nation teeters between hope and skepticism. Recent collaborations with international partners, like the U.S.-led strikes against ISIS targets in northwest Nigeria, signal a shift towards coordinated, tech-driven warfare.
The Old Wineskins: What Failed
- *Reactive, Not Proactive:* Past governments treated terrorism like a seasonal flood—waiting for crises before acting.
- *Corruption-Filled Vessels:* Embezzled funds (e.g., missing anti-terror budgets) weakened defenses.
- *Divided Leadership:* Politicians prioritized regional interests over national security.
The New Wine: Bold Reforms Uncorked
- *Tech-Driven Warfare:* Military now uses drones, data analytics, and AI to track terrorists (e.g., Operation Hadarin Daji).
- *Community Policing:* Neighbors now patrol streets with vigilantes, curbing banditry in Zamfara.
- *Judicial Speed:* Fast-tracking terrorism trials—over 500 convictions in 2023 alone.
- *State Policing Push:* President Tinubu advocates arming state police and forest rangers to combat terror.
Real-Life Miracles
- *Chibok’s Echo:* #BringBackOurGirls pressure led to rescued girls and global partnerships.
- *Lake Chad Victory:* Troops retook Sambisa Forest, Boko Haram’s HQ, after years of loss.
- *Rugged North-West:* Governors deploy ex-militants as peace ambassadors, halving kidnappings.
Challenges Brewing
- *Funding Gaps:* Security budgets still underfunded; reliance on foreign aid persists.
- *Stigma Hurdle:* Communities shun ex-terrorists, fueling radicalization cycles.
- *Digital Risks:* Cyber-enabled crimes rise as tech adoption grows.
Pouring Wisely: Next Steps
- *Invest in Youth:* Job programs for ex-militants (like Amnesty’s DDR model).
- *Border Tech-Fence:* Drones + biometrics to block arms smuggling.
- *Trust-Building:* Leaders must match words with deeds—no more “we’re winning” PR spins.
- *Prevention Focus:* New counter-terrorism plan prioritizes human rights, community resilience, and prevention.
Your Role in the Parable
- *Report Suspicious Acts:* Join neighborhood watch groups.
- *Support Reintegration:* Volunteer with NGOs aiding ex-terrorists.
- *Demand Transparency:* Attend town halls; grill leaders on security plans.
Nigeria’s new wine against terror is potent—but old habits (apathy, corruption) can sour it. If we embrace bold reforms, invest in communities, and hold leaders accountable, solutions emerge. The choice is ours: break the cycle or watch the vessel crack.
_About the author:_ Comrade Amb. Kunle Sodipo (CKS) is a highly accomplished professional with expertise in security, marketing, public relations, and public affairs. He's a licensed security consultant, author, and public affairs analyst who leverages his skills to drive strategic communication and brand growth.
📧: kdrexafricanchild@gmail.com, kdrexstep2@yahoo.com
📞: +2348033823808
📆: Sunday, 28th December, 2025
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