Alia: Illiteracy and Poverty Fuel Nigeria's Insecurity

On Thursday, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, the Governor of Benue State, delivered a lecture at Yakubu Gawon University, focusing on the insecurity challenges facing Nigeria. He identified illiteracy, poverty, and ethno-religious tensions as significant contributors to the ongoing insecurity in the country, which has been exacerbated by Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, and farmer-herder clashes.

Governor Alia suggested that addressing these root causes through quality education, public service improvement, and social cohesion is essential for national security. He proposed that a strong public service and equitable access to education would foster economic growth and peace.

Alia also called for constitutional reforms, including the establishment of state police to enhance security architecture. Prof. Hakeem Awehinmi, Vice Chancellor of the university, acknowledged Governor Alia's contributions and the importance of his insights for academic scholarship.