Poor Governance Fuels Insecurity, Says Security Expert

Engr. Kola Balogun, a security expert and chairman of the Defence Industries Association of Nigeria, identified the lack of effective governance at the grassroots level as a major driver of insecurity and insurgency in Nigeria. Speaking at the Nigerian People's Strategic Conference and Defence Exhibition 2026 in Abuja, Balogun argued that the invisibility of government presence in local areas creates conditions that allow insecurity to thrive.

He stressed that strengthening local government administration is essential for addressing poverty, creating economic opportunities, and restoring citizen confidence in government institutions. Balogun advocated for deeper collaboration between the government and the private sector to develop Nigeria's defense capabilities, emphasizing the importance of local manufacturing in enhancing security.

He noted recent amendments to the DICON Act, which facilitate private sector participation in the defense industry, as a positive step but highlighted that legislative reforms alone are insufficient to overcome deeper challenges in the sector.