Maryam Aminu
In a riveting discourse, Air Commodore Abayomi Balogun, a seasoned military aviator, spotlighted the cracks in Nigeria’s security framework, attributing the protracted fight against terrorism to the absence of synergy among the nation’s armed forces.
Speaking at the launch of his latest book, Amidst the Chaos and Other Certainties: Nigeria Can Overcome, Balogun underscored the urgent need for a united front and proactive strategies to address Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
The event, themed “Beyond the Current Challenges: Nigeria Can Forge a New Path to Peace, Progress, and Stability”, was held at the Nigerian Military War College, Asokoro, Abuja. It drew a distinguished audience of military veterans, policymakers, and strategists, all keen to discuss Nigeria’s pressing security issues.
Balogun, a former Alpha Jet pilot, lamented the consequences of a fragmented military command structure.
“For over 10 years, the military has not operated under one command structure, which should be coordinated by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ),” he noted.
He stressed that this disunity has significantly hindered efforts to combat terrorism and criminal activities effectively.
In his remarks, Balogun also called on the government to prioritize the provision of basic amenities in rural communities, often hotspots for insecurity.
He advocated for a blend of kinetic and diplomatic strategies in addressing terrorism, emphasizing that the fight against insecurity is a collective responsibility.
“The fight against terrorism is an all-inclusive affair,” Balogun said, urging Nigerians to view the battle as a shared responsibility.
Major General Alwali J. Kazir (rtd.), former Chief of Army Staff and Madakin Bade, echoed Balogun’s sentiments.
He highlighted the distinction between “cooperation” and “collaboration,” explaining that collaboration fosters deeper, more effective partnerships essential for tackling Nigeria’s security challenges.
Kazir urged the government to reintegrate retired military officers into advisory roles, leveraging their expertise to strengthen the country’s security framework.
The book reviewer, Air Commodore S.A. Zakari, described Amidst the Chaos and Other Certainties as essential reading for security professionals and policymakers.
Providing an overview of the book’s 12 chapters, Zakari noted that it delves into critical areas, including governance, poverty alleviation, civic responsibilities, and the integration of military veterans into nation-building efforts.
He commended the book for offering strategic solutions, particularly grassroots involvement and counter-terrorism interventions, and hailed it as a manual for crafting a unified and effective security strategy.
The event was graced by dignitaries, including retired senior military officers, politicians, and academics. Notable attendees included Lt. General L.O. Adeosun (rtd.), Air Vice Marshals Ade Adekunle and A.A. Jekenme (rtd.), and Hon. Adeniyi Ojuawo, who represented the book launcher, Dr. Kayode Fayemi.
In a reflective foreword, Major General A.M. Jibril, National Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, lauded the book as a testament to Balogun’s dedication to Nigeria’s progress.
Balogun’s passionate plea for unity and his strategic blueprint for addressing insecurity resonated deeply with attendees. The event served as a clarion call for collective action, reminding all present that Nigeria’s challenges, while daunting, are surmountable through innovation, synergy, and the shared resolve of its citizens.
As the nation grapples with insecurity, Balogun’s words and his groundbreaking book provide hope and a clear roadmap for a brighter future one where Nigeria not only survives the chaos but emerges stronger, more united, and stable.
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