Benue State University, Makurdi

Rejigging Nigeria's Security Architecture for Effectiveness in a Complex Security Environment

Chinwendu Angela Nwizu-Okoye

Abstract

This article delves into Nigeria's security architecture in a changing complex security environment. It diagnoses issues of insecurity in Nigeria that have left every part of the country at the mercy of vicious nonstate actors. The article examines the structure of the security apparatus and defence budget in the delivery and management of security in Nigeria. Progressively, the article highlights the consequences of the failure of insecurity in the country leading up to serious socioeconomic weaknesses. It employs narrative analysis to discuss pervasive insurrections that have seriously challenged the nation's sovereignty and the efforts of the government, security agencies, police and military in fighting terror activities. Data were derived from primary and secondary sources which include group discussions/interviews of key informants on the subject matter and relevant books/documents. In terms of philosophical significance, the article argues that there is a correlation between weak coordination of security architecture and growing insecurity in Nigeria. The article concludes among other things that strategic coordination, collaboration and cooperation of a-whole-ofsociety-approach (the law enforcement, paramilitary, military, relevant government agencies, intelligence and communities) is needed to enhance security delivery and management geared towards peace and stability in Nigeria.

DOWNLOAD COMPLETE ARTICLE HERE (CLICK)