Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has identified what he described as a major contributing factor to the lingering insecurity in the country.
Alia, who spoke at the quarterly lecture series of the Yakubu Gawon University, Abuja, formerly, University of Abuja, said illiteracy, poverty, unemployment, inequality, weak institutions, ethno-religious tensions, poor governance and declining social values are responsible for the deteriorating security crisis.
The governor recalled that the past decades in Nigeria has witnessed an unprecedented level of insecurity such as the Boko Haram insurgency which happens to be an attack on western education, banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, herders and farmer’s clashes that resulted into several deaths and massive destruction of property, making national security threat a major issue for the government.
According to the governor, a good public service and strong institutions would help in tackling the growing security challenges, stressing that the public service is responsible for delivering essential services and supporting the needs of the state and its people.
“Through efficient and effective public service delivery, we can build stronger and more resilient communities, foster economic growth, and promote social cohesion”, he said.
The Governor emphasized that inclusive, equitable and quality education, lifelong learning, technical skills, teacher development and safe learning environments be encouraged at all levels to enhance peace and promote sustainability.
He said education when intentionally employed, will always serve as a foundational, long – term model for combating insecurity in Nigeria by addressing its root causes such as illiteracy, ignorance, poverty, religious extremism and unemployment.
“Rather than using force and media threats, quality, accessible, compulsory and functional education system fosters social cohesion, religions tolerance, and economic empowerment which are crucial for building a peaceful society,” the governor added.