Uni-Ilorin VC Proposes Regional Security Overhaul for Nigeria
Professor Wahab Egbewole, University of Ilorin VC, proposes comprehensive measures to address regional security threats from West African coups. Between 2020-2023, eight successful coups swept across West/Central Africa, with an attempted Benin Republic coup in December 2025 suppressed only by Nigeria's military intervention. Egbewole warns these coups create governance vacuums that fuel terrorism and push instability toward Nigeria's borders. His proposals include: diplomatic measures like dedicated Neighbourhood Policy Envoys and re-engagement with the Alliance of Sahel States; security initiatives including a Nigerian Neighbourhood Defence Doctrine and coastal security corridor; economic partnerships treating development as security imperative; and intelligence investments including border digitalization and counter-disinformation capabilities. He calls for urgent implementation through a Neighbourhood Policy Execution Unit in the Presidency with dedicated budget allocations. With regional instability increasing toward Nigeria's borders, how should Nigerian citizens engage with these proposals to ensure they address real security concerns rather than remain theoretical frameworks?