By Umar Sani Yakubu
The Northeast Concerned Citizens Association has declared its support for a non-kinetic approach in tackling insecurity across the country.
Speaking on Saturday during a press briefing at the Nigeria Union of Journalists Press Centre, Bauchi, the Convener of the group, Mubarak Inuwa, said that the strategy championed by the Chairman, Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, Senator Shehu Buba, is already shaping the fight against insecurity.
Inuwa explained that the senator has consistently argued, both in the Senate and during public engagements that Nigeria must adopt a blend of kinetic and non-kinetic measures if the fight against banditry, insurgency and other crimes is to yield sustainable results.
He added that Buba has championed dialogue, reconciliation and socio-economic renewal as complements to military action, stressing that his advocacy is already shaping national security policy directions.
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“In collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser, Senator Buba’s efforts have led to a more balanced approach to security management. The role of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the NSA, must also be commended for his openness to innovative ideas and relentless commitment to security reforms,” Inuwa said.
The group noted that civil society networks across the country have acknowledged the positive impact of the non-kinetic strategy, citing a gradual reduction in violent incidents in communities previously plagued by criminality.
Highlighting Senator Buba’s activities at the grassroots, Inuwa recalled his visit to Garin Mansur in Alkaleri Local Government Area, Bauchi State, where he commiserated with victims of bandit attacks and engaged hunters, security operatives and community leaders on collective solutions to insecurity.
He also pointed to the senator’s contributions to community development through road projects, distribution of farm inputs, food palliatives and youth empowerment initiatives, which, according to him, are aimed at addressing conditions that fuel insecurity.
The association dismissed allegations linking Senator Buba with banditry describing them as “baseless, malicious and politically motivated blackmail”. saying they are targeted at undermining his rising political profile ahead of the 2027 elections.
“The truth remains that Senator Shehu Buba Umar has emerged as one of the strongest voices for peace and stability in Nigeria. His leadership continues to inspire hope that our nation can overcome its current security challenges,” the convener added.
The group, therefore, urged citizens to disregard what it described as falsehoods, remain united, and support ongoing efforts at restoring peace and development in the country.
Recall that the Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, Senator Shehu Buba, has called for a paradigm shift in Nigeria’s strategy for addressing conflicts, urging the adoption of a non-kinetic approach alongside military responses.
Buba made the recommendation during a media chat where he stressed that while government forces’ operations may temporarily silence conflicts, they cannot guarantee sustainable peace.
According to him, true stability can only be achieved through dialogue, reconciliation, and socio-economic renewal, which address the root causes of insecurity.
The lawmaker argued that military operations should be complemented with non-kinetic measures that focus on engaging communities, fostering understanding, and building trust.
Consequently his view has drawn accusations from political opposition, accusing him of having personal relationships with terrorists, especially bandits.
