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To curb lingering security crisis in the country, a former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai has called for enhanced professionalism in the nation’s security architecture.
Buratai, who spoke along with other experts at the 17th yearly conference of the Institute of Security Nigeria (ISN), stressed that acquisition of requisite skills, attained through cutting edge training of security personnel, with “evidence-based solutions for emerging security challenges,” holds the ace in subduing terrorism and other unsavoury issues besetting the nation’s economic development and growth.
The former army boss, who spoke during his investiture as Second Patron of ISN, said “quality and integrity are paramount” in building an architecture that can cope adequately with the nation’s security challenges.
“We must prioritise professional development, enhanced manpower skills through cutting-edge training, forge strategic partnerships and foster collaboration among agencies, governments and stakeholders.” he said.
He called for increased efforts in promoting research and innovation; community engagements; increased public awareness; and participation in security matters.
“Together, we can combat terrorism, insurgency, and cybercrime” but we also need to “protect critical infrastructure, national assets, uphold human rights and the rule of law.”
He advocated relevant national policy reforms and growth inducing resource allocations. He called on the government to foster international cooperation and knowledge sharing, to strengthen the nation’s development capacity.
“Let us unite to build a secure Nigeria, where citizens live without fear and prosperity thrives,” he added.
Professor Rahman Bello, who chaired the event, noted that national security is paramount in the attainment of socio-economic development of the country, on a sustainable basis.