Rising Terrorism Threat: Former Minister Warns Nigeria “May Fail” Without Decisive Action

A former Nigerian minister has issued a stark warning that Nigeria risks “failing” in its battle against terrorism if urgent and decisive measures are not taken to confront the escalating wave of insecurity gripping several regions of the country. His comments come amid renewed attacks by insurgents, bandits, and extremist groups whose operations have intensified in recent months.

The ex-minister, known for his long history of involvement in national security strategy, expressed deep concern over what he described as a dangerous pattern of complacency, fragmented response systems, and inadequate coordination among security agencies. He stated that the country stands at a critical turning point, stressing that the continued rise in terror incidents poses an existential threat to Nigeria’s stability, economy, and socio-political cohesion. According to him, the phrase “may fail” reflects the possibility of the government losing effective control over vulnerable territories if terrorism is not contained swiftly and comprehensively.

Recent incidents across the North-East, North-West, and parts of the North-Central have shown a troubling evolution in the tactics used by armed groups. Communities have reported coordinated assaults involving improved weaponry, increased kidnapping-for-ransom operations, and attacks on rural villages, highways, and even religious institutions. Security analysts note that these groups are becoming more organised, more emboldened, and more deeply connected to international networks, making the challenge even more complex.

The former minister highlighted that the root causes of insecurity extend beyond armed groups alone. He emphasised that unemployment, lack of job opportunities, weak local economies, and limited youth engagement continue to fuel recruitment into extremist networks. According to him, every region where terrorists thrive mirrors areas where governance, job creation, and social development have fallen behind. He argued that sustainable security must go hand-in-hand with investments in youth empowerment, policing reform, community development, and strong national resilience strategies.

He also warned that Nigeria’s security response remains too reactive, noting that attackers frequently strike with little resistance due to inadequate surveillance systems, slow intelligence-sharing, and insufficient technological support for frontline personnel. He called for a total overhaul of security architecture ranging from modern equipment to improved welfare for soldiers and police officers if Nigeria is to regain control of troubled territories.

The rising spate of terrorism, he said, is not only a threat to lives and property but a direct challenge to national unity and public confidence in government institutions. Without clear reforms, stronger political will, and a nationwide strategy that combines force, intelligence, economic support, and community participation, Nigeria risks slipping deeper into instability.

The statement has sparked conversations among civil society, security experts, and political observers, many of whom agree that Nigeria’s long-term stability depends on whether the government can bridge the gap between security operations and economic opportunity especially for millions of young people who feel excluded from the system.