Economic Reforms Essential for National Security, Says Former Minister Sunday Dare

Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, has stated that President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms and social programs are crucial for achieving lasting national security. He believes that military action alone cannot solve the problem of insecurity.

Dare shared his views in a post on his X platform, highlighting that economic growth, good governance, and social inclusion are vital for tackling the root causes of insecurity. He pointed out that discussions about national security often focus too much on military responses, neglecting how economic policies and social initiatives can impact security.

He noted that states with poor development often face higher levels of insecurity. This underscores the need to combine military efforts with investments in development and governance. For instance, he mentioned the security intervention in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State, which has helped farmers return to their fields, created jobs for young people, and boosted productivity.

Dare also praised Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for sharing details about the positive effects of this intervention on local communities. He pointed out several federal policies that could influence security, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), local government autonomy, and increased funding for states and local governments.

According to Dare, expanding access to higher education through NELFUND can promote social inclusion and provide opportunities for young people, reducing their chances of being recruited by violent groups. He views education as a long-term investment in national security.

On the topic of local government autonomy, he argued that well-resourced councils could improve public services and development in communities, which would help reduce the influence of violent groups. He added that better funding for states and local governments could help them invest in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

Dare emphasized that security should be evaluated not just by military success but also by how well the government addresses the conditions that lead to insecurity. While military action is necessary against armed groups, he believes that sustainable security comes from inclusive development and strong governance. He encouraged Nigerians to expand the national discussion on security to include the social and developmental impacts of government policies.