Insecurity in Nigeria: What's behind the new wave of mass abductions?

In Nigeria, the escalating insecurity has sparked fears of an impending crisis, with mass abductions, Boko Haram attacks, and widespread banditry plaguing the nation. Dennis Amachree, CEO of Zoomlens Security Solutions, shared his perspectives on the security situation in a recent interview with CNBC Africa. Amachree highlighted the urgent need for decisive government action to combat these threats and prevent further destabilization of the country. According to Amachree, the proliferation of kidnappings, particularly of school children, has become a pervasive issue, fueled by ransom payments that embolden the perpetrators. He emphasized the importance of reevaluating the government's approach, advocating for a zero-tolerance policy towards ransom payments and greater empowerment of security agencies. Amachree underscored the significance of intelligence-driven security measures, urging authorities to heed credible intelligence reports and upgrade their equipment and systems to enhance effectiveness in combating criminal activities. With the recent appointment of new service chiefs, there is optimism for a shift in strategy and a more robust response to the security challenges facing Nigeria. Amachree also stressed the critical role of local stakeholders, including state governors and local government officials, in addressing security threats at the grassroots level. He proposed the establishment of state police forces and enhanced training to bolster local law enforcement capabilities and facilitate swift responses to security incidents. Additionally, Amachree advocated for greater collaboration with neighboring countries to secure porous borders and curb the illicit flow of weapons into Nigeria. He highlighted ongoing support from international partners, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, in providing training and resources to strengthen the country's security infrastructure. By fortifying intelligence-gathering efforts, enhancing local law enforcement capacities, and fostering regional cooperation, Nigeria can work towards quelling the tide of insecurity and safeguarding the well-being of its citizens.