ISN Lecture: History Warns Against The Perils Of Ignoring Knowledge Of Past Generations-Prof. Babawale

By Mark Orgu, News/Comments

Earlier today, a professor of political economy, of the University of Lagos, who is now the Provost, Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria, (ACAN), Narasawa State,  Olatunde  Babawale in his key note address, titled : Advancing Security Education For A Stable Political System, Socio-Economic Development, Good Governance And the Mitigation of Ethno-Religious Violence in Nigeria, warns against the pending dangers if the current political leaders do not act fast to reposition and give hope to the current younger generation, then, there is the possibility of more hopelessness in the coming days. Professor Babawale spoke at the Institute of Security, Nigeria, (ISN) 17^th annual international conference, held at the Faculty of Social sciences Auditorium, University of Lagos.

His lecture

Security has remained a fundamental requirement for the sustenance of human existence on Earth since the dawn of time. In humanity’s daily search for survival, individuals confront various threats and must defend themselves against them. This underscores the intrinsic role of security education throughout history, which remains essential for ongoing survival and societal resilience. As humans evolve, so too do their survival strategies, which become increasingly sophisticated in response to the complexity of emerging threats and fears. Historical evidence shows that societies unable to sustainably contain their threats often face decline, leading to the rise and fall of civilisations over time.

While today’s threats may become outdated tomorrow, history warns against the perils of ignoring the accumulated knowledge and experiences of past generations. The failure of one generation to organise a collective body of knowledge regarding the counteractions to the threats of its time can result in dire consequences for both itself and future generations. These reflections demonstrate that security education is not merely a vital necessity for individual development but a crucial resource for the sustainability of human life on Earth.

In Nigeria, for example, the nation grapples with a myriad of significant challenges, including insurgency, corruption, ethno-religious violence and inter-communal crisis. These threats not only undermine political stability but also hinder socio-economic development. The rise of ethno-religious violence, particularly through groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP, has led to thousands of deaths, mass displacements, and severe socio-economic disruptions (Lar, 2019). These challenges underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to security that emphasises the advancement of security education. This paper argues that security education is essential not only for fostering political stability but also for promoting socio-economic development, good governance and effectively combating ethno-religious violence in Nigeria.

Emerging economic, political, and social threats pose significant challenges to good governance and state sovereignty. These threats are often resistant to traditional mitigation strategies. Good governance thrives within the bowels of strong political institutions that can enhance the achievement of developmental goals. The true test of good governance is the degree to which it delivers on the promise of human rights: civil, cultural, economic, political and social.

Good governance adds a normative attribute to the process of governing. It prescribes a process whereby public institutions conduct public affairs, manage public resources to guarantee the realisation of human rights. Good governance also provides a set of performance standards against lawlessness in the society. In other words, security education through good governance is capable of mitigating ethno-religious violence in the country precisely because it ensures that governance is directed at achieving appreciable levels of economic, political, human and institutional development to bring about the greatest good for the greatest number of people in the society.

Thus, security education serves as a critical mechanism for cultivating a stable political environment, fostering economic growth, and mitigating the risks of ethno-religious violence. By emphasising the need for educational reforms and collaborative initiatives, this study highlights how security education can transform societal perceptions, empower communities, and nurture a culture of peace in Nigeria. Ultimately, the advancement of security education is not merely a proactive measure; it is an essential pillar for the sustainable development and resilience of the Nigerian society in the face of evolving threats.

NATIONAL SECURITY AND THE CHALLENGES OF GOOD GOVERNANCE

Nigeria, has for a long time exemplified the disjuncture between the theoretical expectations of democracy and the actual performance of democracy itself. To be sure, the country can boast of possessing the infrastructures of democracy such as multipartism, periodic elections, civil liberties etc. however, it remains to be seen whether our democracy has been able to successfully deliver what it promises to the people, namely good governance.

It is a fact grounded in historical experience that democracy is generally associated with certain universal principles that are consistent with the elements of good governance. These principles include popular sovereignty, political equality, civil liberties, popular consultation, majority rule etc. Other principles associated with good governance include:

• delivery of the public good
• accountability of government officials
• transparency in governmental procedures
• predictability in government behaviour
• openness in government transaction
• freedom of the press
• decentralization of the power-structure and decision-making.

Development becomes feasible where good governance subsists. It is also safe to assume that wherever good governance is missing, democracy will be an empty shell and development will remain a dissolving mirage.

The point must be made that democracies can only make sense when they are able to translate the promises of politics into the deliverables of policy. The claims of democracy must be transformed into the realities of good governance and development, if those claims will have any meaning. Good governance subsists when governance is structured towards achieving the greatest good for the greatest number of people in a society.

Unfortunately, Nigeria over time, has been plagued by grave difficulties, reflected in poverty, inequality, decaying infrastructure, systemic corruption, dwindling revenue, political strife and a burgeoning debt burden. All of these have resulted in political and economic instability, a crippling insurgency, a divided nation and a general atmosphere of insecurity across the land.

As of October 2024, inflation had soared to 32.7%, while food inflation stood at 37.5%. Unemployment has not fared better as no less than 27% of working-age population is either unemployed or underemployed (Olorunyomi, 2024:3). About 133 million people (63% of the population) are said to be multidimensionally poor (National Bureau of Statistics, 2022).

The statistics above explains graphically why the nation has been battling with rising crime wave, insecurity, and mass displacement of people and irregular migration. In the North East, the situation is made worse by a protracted insurgency led by Boko Haram and other terrorists groups. In the North West, kidnappings, banditry and insurgency by terrorist groups, the latest of which is Lakurawa, has become a major existential threat. The escalating conflicts between farmers and herders over land (partly on account of climate change) persist in the North Central region while unknown gunmen and IPOB militants wreak murderous havoc on the south-east. The south-west is plagued by spasmodic kidnappings while the south-south continues to experience the violent paroxysms of cult-related killings and oil-related communal crises.

Unfortunately, the problem of food insecurity caused by the challenges highlighted above has been compounded by the government policy of removal of subsidy on petrol as well as the floatation of the naira, aimed at bringing about a convergence of the exchange rate – a policy that has inevitably brought about the devaluation of the naira and the attendant escalation of the prices of food and other basic commodities.

What needs to be done is to think through the right policy mix that can be applied to provide the required elixir to assuage the pains of poverty and degradation afflicting a majority of the population. Only when this is done can we begin to find an enduring solution to the challenge of insecurity facing the country.

It is clear that this requires a careful mix of improved governance, increased investment in human capital and security education, and the diversification of the economy with a major focus on industrialization and employment generation.

Of course, industrialization can only become a reality when the country is able to address the problem of electricity.

INSECURITY IN NIGERIA

Insecurity is a global challenge affecting many nations, and Nigeria is no exception. It stands as one of the country’s most pressing issues today. The current Nigerian state, shaped by compromise and circumstance, has struggled to effectively represent the diverse interests of its various ethnic nationalities since its independence in 1960. Structural flaws have exacerbated divisions, rivalries, suspicions, and even hostilities among these groups. The rise of a fragmented elite and intense intra-class conflicts, where ethnicity became a convenient weapon, contributed to the collapse of the First Republic in 1966 (Babawale, 2017).

The Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970) intensified insecurity and ethnic mistrust. This conflict legitimised military rule for a period of time, leading to a succession of military leaders, until the inception of the fourth republic in 1999. Ever since, Nigeria has enjoyed 25 years of uninterrupted, even if imperfect, democratic governance.

The 1979 military constitution, established under General Olusegun Obasanjo, centralised ownership of mineral resources in the federal government. This paved the way for illicit exploitation and marginalisation of the Niger Delta region (Akinwumi & Itobore, 2018). The discovery of oil and the federal government’s control over it made political positions increasingly lucrative, fostering an environment that became ripe for corruption. The struggle for power further fuelled thuggery and the use of mercenaries in political campaigns and elections.

Since Nigeria’s return to democratic governance, numerous internal conflicts have emerged, including the Niger Delta struggle for resource control, youth restiveness, political crises, and the Boko Haram insurgency which had become one of the most severe challenges. These conflicts have led to significant economic losses for individuals, corporations, and the government, as well as decline in foreign investment, business shutdowns or relocations, human capital flight, and the diversion of public funds intended for victims. Additionally, they contribute to a pervasive sense of insecurity and psychological trauma among affected populations.

Key threats to peace and stability in Nigeria stem from conflicts driven by political competition and communal, ethnic, religious, or resource allocation rivalries. Some root causes of insecurity in Nigeria include:

• Neo-colonial political and economic system
• Weak leadership and governance
• Systemic corruption
• Poverty and unemployment
• Vulnerable borders
• Non-compliance with existing legislations
• Government neglect of the poor and vulnerable, leading to a widening gap between the rich and the poor
• Elite exploitation of ethnic and religious differences
• Marginalisation and inequality
• Widespread availability of weapons
• A weak and misaligned education system
• Insufficient awareness of security threats.

Security is a critical issue for any society, as no nation can achieve meaningful progress without effective measures to ensure the safety and protection of lives and property. Enhancing security in a community not only fosters safety but also builds a stronger national image both domestically and internationally.

Security education plays a vital role in this context by enhancing human security which involves equipping individuals with the knowledge, values, skills, and experiences necessary for achieving comprehensive national security (Pieczywok, 2018; Al-Edwan, 2016). Through security education, citizens learn to identify threats, understand their implications, and take preventive actions. The absence of security education can create a destabilising environment that undermines political stability, fosters underdevelopment, and exacerbates crime and ethno-religious violence.

Ultimately, education in any form positively influences income growth and political stability, as investment in human capital can help to reduce crime rates and promote informed citizenship. Thus, it is imperative for all citizens to receive education on security issues at a broad level.

SECURITY EDUCATION AND POLITICAL STABILITY

Political threats often arise from prebendal politics, which sometimes escalate into broader conflicts. These threats may originate from criminal elements or disorganised political and economic groups with deep convictions and interests, unpredictable objectives, methods, and motives. A primary function of government is to ensure the security of its citizens. Failure to fulfil this responsibility can give rise to vices such as crime, ethno-religious crisis, and violence, all of which threaten economic growth and development. An educated populace is essential for maintaining a stable governmental system; when citizens understand their rights, duties, and obligations to both themselves and the state, they are more likely to support the political system, thereby enhancing its legitimacy and stability.

In a nation like Nigeria, where the political system frequently changes with new administrations introducing various policies and strategies, continuity is critical. Governments that fail to build on the positive policies or programs of their predecessors often fall prey to nepotism, favouritism, impunity, and greed. This can lead to a disconnect between leaders and the masses, resulting in violence and criminal activities that may cause significant loss of innocent lives and property. Such outcomes highlight the detrimental impact of neglecting the importance of security education within the framework of governance.

Educating citizens about security, democracy, and human rights is vital. It helps them understand governmental responsibilities and empowers them to hold leaders accountable. Furthermore, instilling the importance of participating in elections and voting for credible candidates—rather than reliance on religion, ethnicity, or sentiment—can foster socio-economic stability and create a conducive political atmosphere.

Security education should not be limited to the general populace; it must also extend to political leaders. Politicians need to recognise that their roles are rooted in trust and accountability, rather than personal or party interests. As Nwabueze posits, leadership is a critical aspect of Nigeria’s governance challenges. The educational qualifications mandated for political leaders, as outlined in Section 131(d) and Section 318(1) of the Constitution, cannot equip them to effectively combine ideas and power, or intellectualism and politics. This gap leads to a situation where semi-literate leaders may govern, lacking the necessary literacy and critical thinking skills. The pervasive lack of a reading culture, exacerbated by a societal emphasis on wealth as the measure of social standing, impairs the intellectual growth of leaders and pollutes our leadership recruitment process (Mamah, 2018).

For society to thrive, security education must be prioritised as a vital tool that guides both leaders and citizens. Societies that invest in security education tend to experience greater political stability and a reduced likelihood of major political upheavals, civil unrest, ethnic or religious conflicts, and abrupt leadership changes. Security education is essential for economic growth, social unity, and national development, as it enables long-term planning and investment. Businesses and citizens alike benefit from the stability provided by consistent government policies, fostering an environment conducive to prosperity.

SECURITY EDUCATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Economic development refers to the generation of wealth that benefits and advances society (Galbraith, 1964; Erwantoro et al., 2023). It encompasses not only development projects but also the overall progress of the economy in areas such as education, resource availability, and living standards. Economic development is a process through which a nation improves the economic, political, and social well-being of its citizens, demonstrating growth in security strength, leadership ability, governance, and political stability. This process evolves through continuous efforts to address issues related to growth, sustainability, and security.

It is clear that meaningful development is impossible in the absence of security, as security is essential for both societal advancement and desirable socio-economic development. The problem of insecurity in Nigeria has escalated over time, manifesting in banditry, Boko Haram insurgency, Herdsmen-farmer conflicts, kidnapping for ransom, and armed robbery. On a global scale, insecurity has also led to cybercrime, such as internet fraud, and ethno-religious violence, damaging the reputations of many nations.

Ethno-religious violence as a form of violence can occur as a consequence of the manipulation of differences rooted in ethnic and religious identities. This has posed serious threats to national security, democratic values, and the rights and freedoms of the citizen (Egwu, 2011; Abdu & Umar, 2003). Thus, minimising the influence of ethno-religious conflict is imperative and requires a robust collaboration between the government and the citizens to ensure adequate security in Nigeria.

Security education can play a critical role in mitigating ethno-religious violence, stabilising government, and enhancing economic development when citizens are provided with the necessary information. The government should support individuals with talents, invest in innovations, and bolster various sectors to strengthen the economy. Historically, Nigeria was a destination for tourists and investors; however, security threats and other challenges have led to a decline in foreign investment, the relocation of businesses, increased hunger due to conflicts between Fulani herdsmen and farmers, which had driven farmers away from their farms, reduced access to quality healthcare, a rise in internally displaced persons, and growing poverty levels.

There is a school of thought which argues that poverty fuels civil conflicts, establishing a reciprocal relationship between poverty and conflict known as the “conflict trap.” This concept suggests that once a country experiences conflict, such as civil war, economic development declines, increasing the likelihood of further conflicts. Another argument posits that economic circumstances drive civil conflicts; poverty makes it easier for rebels to recruit fighters by offering better economic opportunities than those available locally. Additionally, increased male school enrolment can reduce the risk of war.

Conversely, scholars like Fearon and Laitin (2003) contend that poverty increases the likelihood of civil conflict not by facilitating rebel recruitment but by weakening the state’s financial and military capacity, thereby enhancing the chances of rebels succeeding in civil wars. Thus, poverty significantly contributes to the insecurity in Nigeria, which in turn adversely affects the economy.

Furthermore, a country’s economic productivity improves when it can boast of a higher proportion of educated workers. However, the troubling trend of Nigeria’s skilled professionals seeking opportunities abroad—often referred to as the “Japa syndrome”—could expose the country to further insecurity (Premium Times, 2022). For example, reports from the National Library of Medicine (2024) indicate that over 5,000 doctors migrated from Nigeria to the United Kingdom between 2015 and 2022. Other professionals, such as pharmacists and engineers, are also leaving the country daily. These migrations are among the negative consequences of insecurity on the economy, with potentially dire implications for Nigeria’s future.

Security education is vital for entrenching political stability and promoting economic growth and development. It serves as an essential tool for fostering a positive culture, attitude, and mindset among citizens, encouraging them to move beyond ethno-religious sentiments that have historically led to chaos and division in Nigeria. By instilling a strong understanding of security and its importance, society can work towards greater unity and progress.

WHAT IS TO BE DONE?

To curtail insecurity and enhance political stability and socio-economic development in Nigeria, the following measures must be implemented:

1. Develop Youth Awareness: It is essential to cultivate young people’s ability to recognise potential threats and dangers in their environment.
2. Revise the Educational Curriculum to include Security Education: This will enhance raise awareness about security – related matters and their manifestations such as civil strife and ethno-religious conflicts, cult-related violence etc.
3. Incorporate National Ethics and Integrity Policy (NEIP) into the Educational Curriculum from the Primary School Level: This will help citizens and residents in the country to imbibe the seven (7) core values (Human Dignity, Voice and Participation, Patriotism, Personal Responsibility, Integrity, National Unity and Professionalism).
4. Promote the Principle of Peaceful Coexistence: School ethos should inspire confidence in peaceful coexistence, guiding students at all levels in their civic duties and the importance of maintaining peace in society.
5. Revise Teacher Training Programs: Teacher training programs should be re-examined to ensure they provide the necessary groundwork for effective security education.
6. Review National Policy on Education: The national policy on education must be updated to outline practical modalities for teaching democratic values and principles as well as innovation, new and emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics etc. The policy should also include the medium to long term plan for revitalizing educational institutions and improving the quality of education in Nigeria from primary to tertiary level.
7. Organise Adult Education: The government should implement adult education programs that emphasise citizenship, peace, and democratic values and culture.
8. Create Employment Opportunities: The government should create job opportunities to engage the youths and prevent idleness.
9. Promote Collective Responsibility and Citizens Awareness on Security-related Matters: Security is everyone’s business; there should be a strong synergy and collaboration between leaders and citizens to address the issue of insecurity in Nigeria.
10. Equip the Security Forces: Security agents must fulfill their role of instilling confidence in the public; when citizens feel secure, trust in the country’s economy will follow.
11. Address Border Vulnerability: The government should tackle border vulnerabilities and adopt international best practices regarding emigration and importation.
12. Demonstrate Political Will to Institute Good Governance: There must be a strong political commitment from the government toward good governance and a proactive stance in mitigating ethno-religious violence.
13. Conduct Widespread Sensitisation: Initiate widespread sensitisation campaigns on the importance of national security to nation-building and development.
14. Institutionalise Whistleblowing Mechanism: Educate the public on whistleblowing and establish functional, reliable, reporting platforms for security concerns.
15. Increase Student Representation in Educational Institutions’ Decision-making in a guided manner: Enhance student representation in decision-making to enable active participation in government programs, particularly those focused on nation-building.

By implementing these measures, Nigeria can work toward a more secure, stable, and prosperous future for all its citizens.

Conclusion

There is no doubt that Nigeria, like many countries around the world, faces a series of challenges, with insecurity being one of the most pressing. It is noteworthy that government is actively engaged in combating these security threats. This presentation has shown that enhancing security education and raising public awareness about security consciousness can significantly mitigate the high rates of insecurity in Nigeria.

It is crucial that security education can be deployed to address current challenges and fill the gaps created by insecurity. This can be achieved by leveraging modern technology and innovative methods to disseminate information and promote awareness, particularly among the youths. By doing so, we can strengthen the collaboration between the government and the public, fostering a collective commitment to addressing insecurity in the country. Through concerted efforts, Nigeria can work again, towards a safer, and more stable future for all its citizens.