Education Is Nigeria's Strongest Weapon Against Insecurity — Alia
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has declared that education remains Nigeria's strongest and most sustainable weapon against insecurity, stressing that while military and other security operations are necessary, lasting peace can only be achieved through sustained investment in quality education, human capital development, youth empowerment and strong institutions.
Governor Alia made the remarks while delivering the inaugural lecture at the maiden Quarterly Guest Lecture Series of Yakubu Gowon University, formerly the University of Abuja. The lecture was titled, "Insecurity and Education in Nigeria: The Benue Model as a Pathway to National Development."
Speaking before members of the university community and other distinguished guests, the governor said Nigeria's growing security challenges require long-term, people-centred solutions that address the root causes of insecurity.
«"Education remains Nigeria's strongest and most sustainable weapon against insecurity. While security operations are necessary, lasting peace can only be achieved by deliberately investing in quality education, human capital development, youth empowerment and strong institutions as a long-term solution," Alia said.»
The governor explained that his administration has adopted what he described as the "Benue Model," which intentionally deploys education as a strategic security policy by investing heavily in free and compulsory basic education, expanding educational infrastructure, recruiting thousands of teachers and establishing the Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Ihugh.
According to him, the model is designed to create opportunities that keep young people meaningfully engaged and reduce their vulnerability to crime, violence and extremism.
«"The Benue Model intentionally uses education as a strategic security policy by creating opportunities that keep our young people productively engaged rather than vulnerable to crime and extremism," he stated.»
Governor Alia also reiterated his longstanding call for the establishment of state police, describing it as a critical complement to education and other institutional reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria's security architecture.
He noted that the complex challenges confronting the country demand bold ideas, practical solutions and courageous leadership, expressing confidence that the Benue experience offers a workable pathway that can be adapted across Nigeria to promote peace, security and sustainable national development.
The Benue State governor thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Governing Council, Management, Senate, staff and students of Yakubu Gowon University for inviting him as the pioneer guest lecturer in the institution's Quarterly Guest Lecture Series.
He also appreciated all participants for their contributions to the enriching discussions, reaffirming his commitment to advancing policies that promote education, security and national development.
