The House of Representatives Committee on National Security has emphasized the importance of deepening international collaborations in addressing the rising insecurity in Nigeria. During the inaugural meeting of the committee, Chairman Ahmed Satomi highlighted the need to adapt and transcend traditional approaches to national security. He stressed that Nigeria must acknowledge its unique challenges in order to effectively combat insecurity.
In his address, Satomi emphasized that the world is undergoing rapid evolution due to emerging technologies, global interconnectedness, and complex geopolitical dynamics. These factors are redefining the nature of security, making it crucial for Nigeria to expand its understanding of national security to encompass multifaceted dimensions that impact the lives of its citizens.
“Today, the concept of security extends beyond borders and military might. It encompasses economic stability, cyber warfare, environmental resilience, social cohesion, and the protection of our democratic institutions.
“To truly address the challenges of the 21st century, we must adopt a holistic and inclusive approach.
“We must recognize that national security should not be pursued at the expense of civil liberties and human rights.
“Instead, we must strive to strike a delicate balance that preserves our core values while ensuring the safety and well-being of our people.
“Let us not forget the importance of international collaboration. In an interconnected world, no nation can stand alone against global threats.
“We must strengthen our alliances, deepen our partnerships, and engage in meaningful dialogue with other nations.
“By fostering cooperation and sharing best practices, we can collectively address transnational challenges such as terrorism, climate change, and the proliferation of small arms and weapons,” Satomi said.
Satomi also emphasized the power of technology as a force for good. While acknowledging the vulnerabilities and threats that technological advancements bring, he highlighted the government’s duty to harness innovation to strengthen intelligence capabilities, enhance cybersecurity infrastructure, and promote responsible data governance.
“By investing in research and development, fostering public-private partnerships, and engaging with the brightest minds in the field, we can stay at the forefront of technological advancements and safeguard our nation’s interests,” he said.
The Chairman of the Committee pledged to promote a culture of openness, ensuring that the Nigerian people are well-informed and engaged in matters of national security. He further promised to ensure that intelligence agencies operate within the bounds of the law and that citizens’ rights are protected. He highlighted the importance of rigorous oversight and responsible governance in building trust and maintaining the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Satomi called on all committee members to join him on a journey of innovation, collaboration, and accountability, emphasizing the need to rise above partisan divides and work together to safeguard the nation for future generations.
