‘Nigeria Has Intelligence, But Not Enough Capacity’ — Ex-DSS Director

Why Insecurity Is Escalating Across Nigeria

Question: Many Nigerians are concerned about the resurgence of kidnappings and terrorist attacks. Does this point to intelligence failure, security compromise or government inaction?

Mike Ejiofor:
Not necessarily.

From my experience in the security sector, intelligence gathering remains active and effective in many instances. The bigger challenge lies in converting intelligence into timely action.

Security agencies often struggle with inadequate funding, limited manpower and insufficient operational equipment. These constraints reduce their ability to respond quickly and effectively.

Consequently, the public sees repeated attacks and concludes that intelligence has failed. In reality, intelligence may exist, but operational capacity is sometimes lacking.

We must also recognise that terrorist groups often escalate violence during periods leading up to major elections. Their objective is to generate fear, create instability and weaken public trust in government institutions.

Why State Police Remain Central to the Debate

Question: Critics argue that Nigeria’s security system is failing. Do you agree?

Mike Ejiofor:
I believe security should be viewed as a shared responsibility.

Government has the constitutional obligation to protect citizens, but communities also have a role to play by supporting law enforcement efforts and sharing information.

One major reform that Nigeria continues to delay is the creation of state police.

Many stakeholders already agree on the principle. The challenge is moving from discussion to implementation.

State police would provide additional manpower, local knowledge and faster response capabilities. Officers recruited from communities understand local languages, social dynamics and geographical realities in ways that outsiders often cannot.

Such a structure would strengthen—not replace—the federal police system.

Understanding the South-West Security Shift

Question: Why has the South-West emerged as a major hotspot for kidnappings and terrorist attacks?

Mike Ejiofor:
Security threats often migrate geographically.

As pressure mounted against insurgents in the North-East, many criminal networks shifted their operations to other regions. Some moved into the North-West, while others have gradually expanded towards the South-West.

The South-West’s demographic and geographical characteristics make it attractive to groups seeking new operational spaces.

Again, this should not be interpreted as a religious issue. These groups merely exploit areas where they believe they can recruit sympathisers or operate with relative ease.

The reality is that they are criminal organisations pursuing violent agendas.

The Strategy Behind School Abductions

Question: Why are schools becoming frequent targets?

Mike Ejiofor:
Because schools represent soft targets with maximum psychological impact.

When children are abducted, fear spreads rapidly across communities and even across regions.

Parents become anxious. Educational activities are disrupted. Public confidence in government declines.

This is precisely what terrorists seek to achieve. Their objective is not only physical harm but also psychological warfare.

The Reforms Nigeria Needs

Question: What practical solutions would you recommend?

Mike Ejiofor:
The first requirement is stronger investment in security institutions.

Personnel must be adequately trained, equipped and motivated. Welfare issues must be addressed because morale directly affects operational effectiveness.

Secondly, the country must significantly increase police manpower.

Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, Nigeria needs state police.

Many of these security threats originate within local communities. Local policing structures are often best positioned to identify warning signs and respond quickly before situations escalate.

Evaluating Government Performance

Question: Is the current administration doing enough to tackle insecurity?

Mike Ejiofor:
The assessment ultimately belongs to Nigerians.

Security experts can recommend solutions, but implementation rests with policymakers and government officials.

Citizens will judge performance based on outcomes, not promises.

Why Immediate Action Matters

Question: Should reforms such as state police and increased funding be implemented immediately?

Mike Ejiofor:
Without hesitation, yes.

The Nigerian Police Force continues to face structural challenges. Officers are regularly posted to unfamiliar environments where they may struggle with language barriers and limited knowledge of local realities.

A decentralised policing system would help address those gaps.

If Nigeria is serious about reversing the current security trend, then reforms such as state police, better funding, enhanced welfare and increased recruitment can no longer be postponed. The urgency of the situation demands action rather than endless debate.