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…tasks leaders on tolerance, human capital development
From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja
Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, has called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s approach to insecurity, urging a blend of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, as Muslims across the country celebrate Eid al-Fitr.
In a message issued on Thursday to mark the end of Ramadan, Bamidele extended his best wishes to Nigerians, noting that the holy month was marked by fasting, prayer, charity, and deep reflection, even amid global uncertainty.
“Today, as the world rounds off Ramadan, the holy month of fasting in Islam, I extend best wishes to all Nigerians celebrating Eid al-Fitr across the federation. In the last month, Muslim families, friends and communities consecrated all to God Almighty in fasting and prayer, love and charity, introspection and retrospection, at the time of global uncertainty.
“At home, Eid al-Fitr presents a vivid template of peaceful co-existence given the recent bomb explosions in Maiduguri, Borno State that cost some lives and inflicted much injury. This season should make us better people in all facets of life. It ought to daily guide the behaviour of every individual, the conduct of every leader and the policies of governments at national and subnational levels,” he added.
While commending Nigeria’s defence, intelligence, and security agencies for their resilience, Bamidele stressed the urgency of recalibrating strategies to combat violent extremism and terrorism.
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“We believe the kinetic approach is key to restoring peace and ensuring security nationwide. But time and experience have shown that kinetic operations alone cannot guarantee the peace and stability of our nation,” he said, while urging a departure from “old practices” for deliberate investment in people as a sustainable pathway to security.
Bamidele placed significant responsibility on political, religious, and socio-cultural leaders, urging them to foster unity and discourage actions capable of deepening divisions by emphasising “tolerance in their teachings and stop radicalising their disciples and followers. As for socio-cultural leaders, they must embrace dialogue to resolve inter-ethnic conflicts rather than resort to armed struggle,” he said.
He stressed that tackling insecurity is not the sole responsibility of the federal government, but a long-term mission requiring active involvement of subnational governments. According to him, states must make human capital development the cornerstone of their response strategies by investing in basic education, prioritising healthcare and nutrition, creating safety nets for vulnerable populations, and building ecosystems that promote creativity and innovation.
On legislative efforts, the Senate Leader disclosed that the National Assembly is already advancing a multi-pronged approach to national development and security. He cited the constitution of an ad-hoc committee on a National Security Summit tasked with identifying the root causes of insecurity, as well as the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria.
Bamidele further explained that the constitutional amendment process is aimed at expanding the powers of subnational governments to play more effective roles in securing their territories.
While reaffirming the resolve of the National Assembly to strengthen legal frameworks supporting the fight against violent extremism, he expressed hope that the Eid celebration would reinforce unity and national cohesion.
“I wish all who celebrate Eid al-Fitr the warmest celebration,” he added.
