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The ongoing crisis in Sudan has the potential to further worsen the already dire security situation in Africa if not properly addressed by African leaders, according to Rear Adm. Murtala Bashir, the Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC).

Speaking at a One-Day Roundtable on Sudan Crisis in Abuja, organized by the Center for Strategic Research and Studies of the NDC, Rear Adm. Bashir highlighted the theme of the roundtable – “Sudan Crisis: Implications for National and Regional Security.

He noted that Sudan has experienced numerous crises, including two civil wars between the central government and the southern regions, as well as the ongoing crisis in the western region of the country. The conflict has claimed the lives of approximately 200,000 people and resulted in the displacement of millions, with many seeking refuge in neighboring countries.

Rear Adm. Bashir emphasized the massive destruction of infrastructure and facilities in the country, along with the loss of lives and further displacement of people. He also drew attention to the lasting impact of the Libyan crisis, urging African leaders to take prompt action to prevent a similar situation from unfolding in Sudan.

The commandant expressed the NDC’s responsibility as Nigeria’s apex military institution to organize the roundtable and invite esteemed resource persons to generate strategies for resolving the crisis in Sudan. He emphasized the need for swift resolution and highlighted the interventions made by various countries and organizations, including Saudi Arabia, the United States, and African nations.

The resource persons at the roundtable are expected to conduct an in-depth analysis of the crisis, proposing practical and enduring strategies that can bring an end to the conflict. Rear Adm. Bashir assured that the findings and recommendations would be articulated and forwarded to the appropriate security authorities for necessary action.

Dr. Victor Akran of the Department of History and War Studies at the Nigerian Defence Academy provided background information on the Sudan crisis. He highlighted the involvement of European powers in Sudan since the colonial era, with a focus on slave labor and resource extraction. He further emphasized that the resolution of the current crisis largely depends on the active participation of African leaders.

Observing the consequences of the Libyan crisis for Nigeria, Dr. Akran stressed the importance of timely action by African nations to prevent similar repercussions. He urged leaders to learn from past experiences and take decisive steps to resolve the Sudan crisis.

The NDC, under Rear Adm. Bashir’s leadership, remains committed to developing strategies to address security challenges in Nigeria, Africa, and globally. The commandant affirmed the college’s dedication to delivering actionable findings and recommendations to contribute to ongoing efforts in maintaining regional and international security.

NAN