Former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Tukur Buratai (retd), has said in the light of the evolving global security landscape and the increasing demands placed on the nation armed forces, there is urgent need to bolster troop levels to 800,000.
According to him, this strategy enhancement is not merely a matter of numbers, it is critical for ensuring that Nigeria military is adequately prepared to address both current and emerging threats effectively.
He stated this at the annual Security Summit themed, Insecurity, Cost of Living and Good Governance in the 21st Century, organised by the Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Otto/Ijanikin, Lagos.
General Buratai, who was the keynote speaker at the summit spoke on the topic: ‘Lagos in Nigeria’s National Security and Defence Architect: An Analysis, added that a larger and more robust force will enhance operational readiness, improve the capability to respond to various contingencies and strengthen the alliances on the international stage.
He noted: “It is important we prioritize this recruitment initiative to maintain national security and uphold our commitments to global stability.”
The former COAS stressed that it is high time Nigerians understand the complex and dynamic connectivity of the modern environment demands adaptive capabilities within the defence outcomes rather than concentrating solely on traditional security and defence inputs.
According to him, the recent advancements in technology and military doctrine emphasize the increased use of automation, particularly through artificial intelligence to ensure more consistent decision-making.
On security in Lagos, the keynote speaker urged the Lagos State Government to.begin to look at options and implications of having its own security.
This he explained would give the state an edge in turning down options that are often recommended by the centre but seem to go against it’s interest.
The retired general disclosed further that a strong case was made by the state government about the necessity of establishing a waterfront authority to manage the security problems posed by the mixed character of Lagos coastal areas.
He argued that the focus on waterways is the result of a recent increase in the incidence of illegal activities such as smuggling, oil bunkering and general piracy along the Lagos coast.
“Establishing a semi- autonomous Lagos water security authority would enable the Lagos State Government to effectively manage many other problems such as waste disposal, water transportation in the Lagos waterways,” he suggested.
Buratai disclosed that the establishment of a Marine Corps for the Nigerian Navy to be strategically stationed in key regions such as Lagos, Borno, Cross River and Port Harcourt presents a formidable opportunity to enhance the security of the nation’s coastal borders.
He added: ” By deploying specialized units in these vital areas, we effectively thwart maritime threats, including piracy and smuggling, while ensuring the safety of our vital routes.
“The diverse geographical and socio-political landscapes of these locations necessitate a dedicated force that is not only trained in amphibious operations but also adept at engaging with local communities to foster cooperation and intelligence sharing,” he stressed.
Commending the Lagos State government, Buratai said the comprehensive Lagos Resilience Strategy articulates a bold vision that reflects the earnest desire of the state government to create an innovative, inclusive, and prosperous city that leverages the appropriate governance and infrastructure mechanism to empower it’s people to thrive adapt, and grow sustainably.
“Therefore, I will unequivocally conclude by emphasizing that Lagos State must remain steadfastly focused on continuing along this vital path and trajectory of empowering it’s citizens, ensuring they have the tools and resources necessary to thrive, adapt to changing circumstances and grow sustainably in the face of both challenges and opportunities,” he added.
Earlier in her address, LASUED Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bilkis Lafiaji-Okuneye, said insecurity and rising costs of living are pressing issues facing Nigeria in the 21st century, adding that insecurity, poverty, and social unrest has particularly affected Nigerian youths, leading to increased crime, drug abuse and a loss of productive potential.
The VC however said that that the stark reality is that effective governance could serve as a crucial tool in addressing these challenges.
Adding that the theme of the conference is apt considering the insecurity in the country, she said Lagos, often described at the economic heartbeat of Nigeria occupies a strategic position not only in terms of it’s economic contributions but also within national security and defence framework.
“As the most populous city in Nigeria and a major commercial hub in West Africa, Lagos faces unique security challenges including urban crime, terrorism, and communal clashes, therefore with the keynote speaker using the state as a case study, it’s experiences and approaches can serve as valuable lessons for addressing broader security issues across the country,” she noted.
The Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr. Tolani Sule in his remarks commended the university management for the initiative adding that programmes like the security summit is important to university ecosystem.
“That is why Lagos State will continue in its endeavour to make the state peaceful through good security initiatives across primary, secondary and our tertiary institutions.”
The discussant which include, Oloja of Epe land, Oba Kamorudeen Animashaun; Aladi of Ijanikin Kingdom, Oba Momodu Ashafa; Oloto of Oto-Awori Kingdom, Oba Aina Josiah Olarewaju and Paramount Ruler of Odo Noforija Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja urged the students of the university to desist from social vices that can disrupt their academic pursuit.
On security, they emphasized their readiness with support from the state government to address the issue, adding that event like the security summit is one of those initiatives that would produce greater and profitable result for all stakeholders including the nation at large.