Author Archives: News All Around

By Samuel Forani

CLEEN Foundation has begun a three-day Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Stakeholder Inception Training and commenced the formal inauguration of State Multi-Stakeholder Implementation and Monitoring Committees (SMIMCs) across five project states—Kaduna, Nasarawa, Imo, Plateau, and Benue.

The initiative, implemented in collaboration with state-level partners, aims to strengthen the domestication and execution of Nigeria’s National Action Plan (NAP) on Women, Peace and Security. It seeks to address the persistent gendered impacts of conflict, insecurity, and governance gaps that disproportionately affect women and girls, particularly in the North-Central and South-East regions.

Speaking on day one of the training in Kaduna State, the Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation, Peter Maduoma—represented by Programme Manager, Chigozirim Okoro—emphasised that despite Nigeria’s national commitments to the WPS agenda, implementation at the sub-national level remains weak, fragmented, and poorly coordinated.

“Several states either lack functional State Action Plans or have inactive implementation structures, resulting in minimal progress on key WPS pillars, including participation, protection, prevention, relief, and recovery,” he said.

The newly inaugurated SMIMCs are expected to serve as inclusive coordination platforms that bring together government institutions, security agencies, civil society organisations, traditional and religious leaders, women mediators, youth groups, and the media. These committees are responsible for planning, overseeing, and monitoring WPS interventions in their respective states while ensuring alignment with the national framework and adapting approaches to local realities.

According to CLEEN Foundation, the committees will also track state-level commitments under the Security Accountability Project (SAP), improve institutional collaboration, and promote gender-sensitive decision-making across peace and security processes.

The ongoing workshops are designed to build the technical capacity of committee members on WPS principles, monitoring tools, reporting frameworks, and coordination mechanisms. Participants will also develop state-specific implementation roadmaps that outline steps for operationalizing WPS commitments.

Each state training hosts at least 30 participants drawn from the Ministries of Women Affairs, Justice, and Internal Security; gender committees of State Houses of Assembly; security agencies including the Police, DSS, Civil Defence, Correctional Service, and the military; faith-based organisations; traditional institutions; media stakeholders; and members of WPS networks, He4She ambassadors, and SIC networks.

The inception workshops were held in Imo, Nasarawa, and Benue States from November 11–13, and are ongoing in Plateau and Kaduna States from November 18–20, 2025.

Across all five states, CLEEN Foundation anticipates strengthened coordination, improved accountability, increased visibility of WPS commitments, and deeper engagement of women and youth in peace and security decision-making processes.

Christian and Muslim organisations under the umbrella of the Coalition for Peace and Justice have concluded plans to convene a National Mega Peace Summit aimed at promoting unity and strengthening the fight against insecurity across Nigeria.

The interfaith summit, scheduled to hold next week Saturday in Kaduna and Abuja, is expected to attract grassroots religious leaders from across the country, particularly from the northern region.

In a press statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary, Dr. Othman Musa Idris and Pastor John Simon Jita, the coalition reaffirmed that unity, mutual understanding and collective action remain essential to overcoming the forces threatening the nation’s peace and development.

According to the organisers, the summit will provide a strategic platform for Christian and Muslim leaders to engage in dialogue, exchange perspectives and develop joint approaches to tackling the rising threats of terrorism, banditry and violent extremism.

They noted that faith leaders play a critical role in shaping public attitudes and influencing community responses to security challenges. The gathering, therefore, seeks to harness their influence in mobilising communities toward peacebuilding, conflict resolution and improved security cooperation.

Discussions at the summit will also focus on practical steps to end violence, foster peaceful coexistence and reinforce the shared commitment of both religions to safeguarding lives and restoring stability in affected communities.

At the end of the deliberations, a joint communiqué is expected, outlining agreed positions, recommendations and a coordinated framework to support national security efforts and advance sustainable peace across the country.

The International Peace Advocacy Forum (IPAF) has described Senator Abdul Aziz Yari as “a pillar of unity” for his sustained efforts in promoting peace, rebuilding trust, and strengthening interreligious harmony across Northern Nigeria.

In a statement issued by its Chairman, Dr. Emmanuel Haruna, the group commended the former Zamfara State Governor for demonstrating what it called “remarkable and consistent leadership” through deliberate engagements with both Christian and Muslim communities in some of the region’s most fragile areas.

IPAF noted that Senator Yari’s outreach to churches, displaced families, survivors of insurgency attacks, and victims of banditry has not only brought comfort to traumatized communities but has also helped reduce tensions and promote peaceful coexistence.

“As a former governor and now a serving senator, Senator Yari has shown uncommon courage and empathy in standing with vulnerable populations,” the statement read. “His commitment to protecting Christian communities during periods of intense insecurity remains exemplary and deserves national recognition.”

According to IPAF, Yari’s interventions over the years have played a stabilizing role in several conflict-hit communities, fostering dialogue, encouraging tolerance, and strengthening community resilience at a time when Northern Nigeria continues to struggle with complex security threats.

The forum urged political, religious, and community leaders across the country to emulate Senator Yari’s inclusive and bridge-building leadership style, which it described as vital for strengthening national unity and preventing further polarization.

It further reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to deepen peace-building initiatives and bolster social harmony across Nigeria.

Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most notable performing governors. His administration’s “MORE Agenda” — Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security — has provided a clear roadmap for governance, translating plans into tangible outcomes across infrastructure, social welfare, and fiscal management.

Delta State under Governor Oborevwori is proving that clear vision and disciplined execution can deliver real change.

In every sector, the driver of the M.O.R.E Agenda — the Executive Governor of Delta State, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori — has demonstrated unrivaled competency, unflinching capacity, and unwavering clarity of purpose.

Infrastructure Delivery: Roads, Bridges, and Connectivity

The Oborevwori administration has placed strong emphasis on large-scale infrastructure development. Over 510 road and bridge projects covering nearly 1,450 km are ongoing, with many already completed in less than two and a half years of his tenure.

Major urban interchanges such as PTI Junction, DSC Roundabout, and Enerhen Junction have been redesigned for improved mobility. Significant projects now link surrounding towns and villages to the state capital, Asaba — a testament to the governor’s commitment to inclusive development.

Rural and riverine areas are receiving critical connectivity projects, ensuring balanced development. These initiatives enhance commerce, mobility, and the quality of life for Delta residents. From urban centres to rural communities, Delta State is witnessing infrastructure that truly connects its people.

Fiscal Discipline and Economic Growth

Delta State has recorded major fiscal gains under Governor Oborevwori. Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) increased from ₦83 billion in 2023 to ₦158 billion in 2024.

The state’s debt profile dropped from ₦465 billion to ₦249 billion, reflecting focused fiscal discipline. Yet, infrastructure development continues at scale without excessive borrowing. These figures reflect prudent resource management alongside massive development.

People-Centred Governance

Oborevwori’s administration places strong emphasis on human capital and social inclusion. Within less than 30 months, thousands of teaching and non-teaching staff have been recruited across Delta’s LGAs.

The governor has also expanded student bursaries, as well as technical training and skill acquisition centres statewide. Social programs — including empowerment grants and monthly stipends for vulnerable groups — have reached tens of thousands across all LGAs.

Governor Oborevwori’s policies make clear that no community or citizen should be left behind.

Promoting Peace and Inclusive Governance

Understanding that development thrives on peace, Governor Oborevwori maintains close engagement with traditional rulers, youth groups, and community stakeholders to sustain unity and harmony across the state.

A defining principle of his administration is accountability — removing underperforming officials and sanctioning erring staff. His insistence on a Delta State that works for all has driven multiple urban and rural projects across the three senatorial zones. The state has effectively become a large construction site under his leadership.

Recognition and National Credibility

Governor Oborevwori’s accomplishments have earned him several national recognitions. He was named Governor of the Year 2024 by multiple media organisations including Thisday Newspapers and Arise TV Group, Vanguard Newspapers, Silverbird Group, The Sun, and News Telegraph.

In 2025, he received the Most Prolific Governor of the Year award from the Democracy Heroes Award. Elder statesmen and civic leaders have also commended his visible achievements, underscoring his clarity of purpose and delivery capacity.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

While significant progress has been recorded, challenges remain. Governor Oborevwori is committed to sustaining quality infrastructure, creating more jobs, strengthening rural economies, and deepening transparency and citizen engagement.

His bold intervention in federal road projects — including the recent flag-off of the construction of the Benin-Sapele Road — is a testament to his determination to address issues that directly affect Deltans.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has demonstrated that purpose-driven leadership delivers results. Delta State’s transformation under his watch is evident, measurable, and enduring. With Governor Sheriff, M.O.R.E is assured.

Dr. Emmanuel Ashikodi
Concerned Professionals for Good Governance (A Good Governance Advocacy Group)

A heated exchange ensued on Monday in Abuja between former Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, and former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, during the National Electoral Reforms Summit 2025, as both clashed over the performance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Amaechi, in his remarks at the summit organized by the Movement for Electoral Reform, took a swipe at the current administration, describing it as “insensitive to the yearnings of Nigerians.” He lamented the worsening hardship across the country, accusing the government of failing to deliver good governance and protect citizens from economic suffering.

“People are suffering, yet there is no ASUU, no NLC, no NANS to mount pressure on the government. Nigerians are quiet when they should be demanding accountability,” Amaechi said, warning that Tinubu’s government is “defeatable” through democratic means.

However, his comments immediately drew a strong reaction from Senator Sani, who accused Amaechi of hypocrisy, reminding him of his own record in public service.

“You were part of governance from the state to the centre for many years, with little or no remarkable achievement,” Sani fired back. “You are now attacking Nigerians for not protesting, but you yourself never led any protest when you were in power.”

The former lawmaker argued that many of the challenges now blamed on Tinubu’s administration were created by previous leaders — including those who served under both the PDP and APC governments since 1999.

“All that he is pointing out as bad were problems created by leaders like him. It is ironic that after two years out of power, he has suddenly become a critic,” Sani added.

The National Electoral Reforms Summit 2025, held in Abuja, brought together politicians, civil society leaders, and electoral experts to deliberate on strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions ahead of future elections.

Other notable participants included Dr. Usman Bugaje, IPAC Chairman Peter Ameh, former SDP presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, and Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe.

The fiery Amaechi–Sani exchange became the highlight of the summit, drawing mixed reactions from attendees who described it as a reflection of the growing ideological and moral divides within Nigeria’s political elites.

A heated exchange ensued on Monday in Abuja between former Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, and former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, during the National Electoral Reforms Summit 2025, as both clashed over the performance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Amaechi, in his remarks at the summit organized by the Movement for Electoral Reform, took a swipe at the current administration, describing it as “insensitive to the yearnings of Nigerians.” He lamented the worsening hardship across the country, accusing the government of failing to deliver good governance and protect citizens from economic suffering.

“People are suffering, yet there is no ASUU, no NLC, no NANS to mount pressure on the government. Nigerians are quiet when they should be demanding accountability,” Amaechi said, warning that Tinubu’s government is “defeatable” through democratic means.

However, his comments immediately drew a strong reaction from Senator Sani, who accused Amaechi of hypocrisy, reminding him of his own record in public service.

“You were part of governance from the state to the centre for many years, with little or no remarkable achievement,” Sani fired back. “You are now attacking Nigerians for not protesting, but you yourself never led any protest when you were in power.”

The former lawmaker argued that many of the challenges now blamed on Tinubu’s administration were created by previous leaders — including those who served under both the PDP and APC governments since 1999.

“All that he is pointing out as bad were problems created by leaders like him. It is ironic that after two years out of power, he has suddenly become a critic,” Sani added.

The National Electoral Reforms Summit 2025, held in Abuja, brought together politicians, civil society leaders, and electoral experts to deliberate on strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions ahead of future elections.

Other notable participants included Dr. Usman Bugaje, IPAC Chairman Peter Ameh, former SDP presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, and Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe.

The fiery Amaechi–Sani exchange became the highlight of the summit, drawing mixed reactions from attendees who described it as a reflection of the growing ideological and moral divides within Nigeria’s political elites.

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has faulted former U.S. President Donald Trump over what he described as a “misleading narrative” about Nigeria’s internal security situation, stating that the country will eventually overcome terrorism despite challenges.

In an interview granted to the Washington Post, Sani stated that Trump had been “misinformed and misled by anarchists and propagandists” who distort Nigeria’s realities for political or ideological purposes.

According to the outspoken activist, “Trump’s views about Nigeria and its leadership were shaped by people who thrive in chaos and division. They present a one-sided picture of insecurity and ignore the courage and resilience of Nigerians confronting terrorism daily.”

Sani, who served in the 8th National Assembly and is a well-known human rights campaigner, emphasized that while Nigeria still faces serious threats from insurgents and bandits, the country’s security agencies and citizens remain united in their determination to restore peace and stability.

“Nigeria will defeat terrorism. It may take time and sacrifice, but the people have refused to surrender to fear,” Sani told the Washington Post. “Our diversity and democracy remain stronger than the hate and violence of extremists.”

He also urged the international community, including the United States, to avoid adopting biased reports and instead support Nigeria’s efforts through intelligence sharing, humanitarian assistance, and balanced diplomacy.

Sani further noted that the fight against terrorism requires both military strategy and social justice, stressing that addressing poverty, unemployment, and corruption is essential to achieving lasting peace.

The former lawmaker’s comments come amid renewed global attention to Nigeria’s security situation, following a series of foreign commentaries that have drawn mixed reactions from citizens and policymakers.

Sani concluded by warning against what he termed “weaponization of misinformation” against African nations, saying it undermines democracy and fuels instability.

“Nigeria’s story should be told by Nigerians, not by those who profit from its pain,” he said.

The Forum for Growth and Development of Nigeria (FGDN) has urged the European Union (EU), the United Kingdom (UK), the People’s Republic of China, and Canada to impose visa restrictions on individuals engaging in what it described as “coordinated social media attacks” against the organization and its leadership.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Dr. Adams Shaiza Musa, and made available to journalists in Kaduna, the group expressed deep concern over what it termed an increasing wave of “malicious and unhealthy” online campaigns targeted at both local and international organizations.

According to the statement, FGDN—known for its advocacy for national unity, good governance, and youth empowerment—said it has recently noticed some “unwarranted and orchestrated online assaults” aimed at discrediting international organizations.

“We are disturbed by the level of hate speech and false narratives being peddled on social media against several organizations. These attacks are not only defamatory, but also capable of inciting divisions and discouraging civic engagement between patriotic Nigerians and international communities,” the statement read.

While reaffirming support for the constitutional right to freedom of expression, the group stressed that such freedom must be exercised responsibly and within the bounds of truth and decency. It warned that the abuse of digital platforms to spread misinformation and launch personal attacks poses a threat to national unity and social cohesion.

“We call on the embassies of the EU member states, China, the United Kingdom, and Canada to take note of individuals who habitually use the internet to malign others. They should be denied visas and international privileges until they desist from such unethical conduct,” FGDN stated.

The group also called on relevant Nigerian agencies, including the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), to strengthen regulatory measures governing online communication in order to curb misinformation and cyberbullying.

However, it reaffirmed FGDN’s commitment to promoting development-oriented dialogue, civic education, and initiatives that foster peace and social progress across Nigeria.

“FGDN remains focused on its mission to contribute positively to national development. We will not support those who seek attention through baseless accusations. Our objective is to unite Nigerians with international communities around ideas that can move the nation forward,” he said.

The statement concluded with an appeal to media practitioners and social commentators to verify information before publishing or sharing it online, urging them to uphold ethics and professionalism in their work.

In a nation where economic hardship continues to test the resilience of its people, the Department of State Services (DSS) under the visionary leadership of Director General Mr. Adeola Oluwafemi Ajayi, has once again demonstrated that true security transcends the barrel of the gun. The recent announcement of a N50,000 one-time cash assistance to 7,774 carefully selected vulnerable Nigerians, 10 from each of the 774 local government areas stands as a landmark achievement in the annals of non-kinetic security operations in Nigeria.

This initiative, totaling approximately N388 million, is not merely a welfare gesture, it is a masterstroke in nation-building, social inclusion and sustainable peace.

The Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement for Peace, Unity, Empowerment and Development Initiative (NSNCM) wholeheartedly commends the DSS and its Director General for this people-centered intervention. By deliberately targeting the “poorest of the poor”, widows, the elderly, persons with disabilities, the unemployed, and those burdened by medical challenges. It recognizes that hunger, despair and exclusion are fertile grounds for unrest, radicalization and criminality. In providing direct financial relief, the DSS is not only alleviating immediate suffering but is also fortifying the social fabric of our beloved country.

The selection process itself deserves special praise. Unlike many top-down interventions that often bypass the most deserving, the DSS adopted a grassroots, consultative approach. Security heads, traditional rulers, religious leaders, local government officials, and community stakeholders were all involved in identifying beneficiaries. This ensures transparency, fairness, and cultural relevance. When an 80-year-old grandfather like Pa Segun in the Southwest receives his N50,000 with tears of gratitude, it is not just money changing hands, it is dignity being restored, hope being rekindled, and loyalty to the state being reinforced.

For the beneficiaries, this N50,000 is far more than a cash transfer, it is a lifeline with transformative potential. In rural communities where daily income barely exceeds N500, this sum can cover three months of basic food needs for a family of five. A widow in Sokoto can now purchase grains, cooking oil, and medicine without begging. An unemployed youth in Ebonyi can use the funds to start a small poultry or vegetable farm, generating sustainable income. A disabled artisan in Kano can acquire tools to resume his trade. These are not abstract possibilities, they are real pathways out of poverty, made possible by the DSS’s foresight.

Moreover, this initiative aligns perfectly with global best practices in countering violent extremism. Research from the United Nations and the Institute for Economics and Peace consistently shows that economic empowerment reduces vulnerability to recruitment by criminal or terrorist groups. When citizens feel seen, supported, and valued by state institutions, they become active defenders of peace. The DSS, through this program, is building a human security firewall and deserve our commendation for that. We particularly applaud the DG’s emphasis on “winning hearts and minds.” This is leadership with empathy.

In a time when security agencies are often criticized for heavy-handedness, Mr. Ajayi has shown that strength also lies in compassion. By investing nearly N400 million of its resources into direct citizen support, the DSS is setting a powerful example for other agencies and tiers of government. We call on state governors, local government chairmen, and federal ministries to emulate this model. Imagine the impact if every security outfit in Nigeria allocated just 1% of its budget to similar empowerment schemes.

As the National President of the Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement, I urge the DSS to sustain and expand this initiative. Future phases could include skills training, micro-credit follow-ups, and digital literacy programs to ensure long-term self-reliance. We also recommend the establishment of a public monitoring framework, perhaps through civil society partnerships to track outcomes and share success stories nationwide.

In conclusion, the DSS N50,000 cash assistance program is without doubt a beacon of hope in Nigeria’s development journey. It proves that security is not just about intelligence and enforcement but about justice, equity and human dignity.

On behalf of the Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement for Peace, Unity, Empowerment and Development Initiative (NSNCM), I extend our deepest gratitude to Director General Adeola Ajayi and the entire DSS family. May this initiative inspire a new era of inclusive governance where no Nigerian is left behind.

Dr Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu
Sarkin Yakin Kanya Babba,
National President
Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement For Peace, Unity, Empowerment and Development Initiative (NSNCM)

By Aminu Hussaini Sagagi

“The U.S’s accusation of alleged “Christian Genocide” against Nigeria with a threat of possible military action against the country would constitute a breach of International Law.
Analysts warn that, without recourse to any United Nation’s declaration, however noble the US unilateral intervention might seem within the country’s public policy perspective, the “action” smacks of violation of the very principles that sustain the global order.
Barrister Aminu Hussain Sagagi in this article highlights why Kano State Government align with the Federal Government stand, examining how the US’s threat against Nigeria would further escalate strain relationship and the resultant effect may lead Nigeria to embrace alternative global partners such as China or Russia – a shift that could reshape the regional alliances”.

In a move that has sent ripples through diplomatic circles across Africa, U.S. President Donald J. Trump has designated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) under U.S. religious-freedom laws, alleging a “genocide of Christians.” He also warned of possible U.S. military action, a statement that has sparked intense debate over international law, sovereignty and the limits of moral intervention in global affairs.
Trump, speaking via his Truth Social platform, accused Nigeria’s leadership of “turning a blind eye” to the alleged killings of Christians, calling the situation “an existential threat to Christianity.” The U.S. Department of State confirmed that the designation was made under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998, which enables sanctions against nations found to be violating religious freedom in a “systematic and egregious” manner.

The Federal Government of Nigeria, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has rejected both the allegations and the label, describing them as “misinformed and unfounded.” Officials insist that Nigeria remains committed to protecting citizens of all faiths and that the violence ravaging parts of the country stems from terrorism, banditry and resource competition, not state-sponsored religious persecution.

Amid the diplomatic storm, the Kano State Government, led by His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has declared its full solidarity with the Federal Government and the People of Nigeria. In a statement issued in Kano, Governor Yusuf reaffirmed the State’s unwavering loyalty to the Nigerian federation and condemned attempts to portray the nation as a site of religious genocide. “Nigeria is a united and resilient country where Christians and Muslims have lived together for generations,” the statement read. “Kano stands firmly with the Federal Government in defending our sovereignty, our diversity and our dignity in the comity of nations.”
While the CPC designation itself is primarily diplomatic, Trump’s accompanying threat of deploying U.S. forces has raised serious legal questions. Under Article 2(4) of the United Nations Charter, member States are prohibited from using or threatening force against the territorial integrity of another Member State unless in self-defence or with UN Security Council authorization. Without Nigeria’s consent, analysts warn, any U.S. military action would constitute a breach of International Law.
Nigeria is not a failed State; any unilateral intervention, however noble it may seem within the public policy perspective of the USA or Europe, would violate the very principles that sustain the global order.

The use of the term genocide is particularly contentious. Under the Genocide Convention of 1948, genocide requires proof of intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic or religious group. Human-rights organizations acknowledge that Nigeria faces severe insecurity – including attacks by Boko Haram, ISWAP and armed militias – but warn against oversimplifying the conflict as one of religion.
The violence affects Muslims and Christians alike. It’s driven by a noxious mix of poverty, climate stress, extremism and weak governance – not by any single religious agenda.

The U.S. move risks straining one of its most strategic relationships in Africa. Nigeria is a key partner in counterterrorism, regional stability and economic development. The Nigerian Senate has called for calm diplomacy, urging engagement with Washington. The African Union has also expressed concern, warning that “unilateral actions under humanitarian pretexts” could undermine African sovereignty and set troubling precedents.
Should relations deteriorate further, experts warn, Nigeria could pivot toward alternative global partners such as China or Russia – a shift that could reshape regional alliances.
Trump’s rhetoric has revived the age-old debate about the intersection of morality and power in international relations. Proponents say Washington is right to speak out against persecution, while critics argue that selective interventions erode credibility and risk weaponing human rights.
“Religious freedom is an important value,” says Dr. Samuel Adebayo, a Nigerian diplomat and governance scholar. “But turning moral advocacy into a pretext for coercion blurs the line between protection and interference.”

For now, Nigeria’s leadership – buoyed by broad domestic support, including that of Kano State and other subnational governments – appears united in rejecting the U.S. narrative. While sanctions or diplomatic restrictions could follow, actual military action remains unlikely and legally indefensible without UN approval or Nigerian consent.
As Nigeria continues to confront terrorism, inequality and communal conflicts, its leaders insist that reform and reconciliation must come from within – not through threats from abroad. The unfolding episode, analysts say, will test not just Nigeria’s resilience, but also the world’s commitment to the delicate balance between sovereignty and global conscience.

Barrister Aminu Hussaini is a Special Adviser on Justice/Constitutional Matters to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf