Ethnic Profiling Threatens Nigeria's National Stability

Security experts have raised concerns that ethnic profiling reinforces harmful stereotypes and undermines national stability in Nigeria. This was highlighted during a high-level virtual dialogue organized by Beacon Security Intelligence and Wiser, supported by UKAID.

Dr. Kabir Adamu, Managing Director of Beacon Security Intelligence, and Brigadier General Saleh Bala (rtd) noted that ethnic profiling, particularly in Nigeria's northwestern and north-central regions, stigmatizes communities and misuses terminology, which can trigger conflict.

Dr. Ukoha Ukiwo from the UK Foreign Commonwealth Development Office emphasized the importance of conflict-sensitive communication to prevent hate speech and divisive narratives.

Dr. Fatima Akilu of the Neem Foundation observed that labels often oversimplify complex issues, leading to further marginalization.

Ambassador Sarki Usman argued that ethnic profiling is counterproductive and creates stigma that undermines intelligence gathering for national security. Professor Okei Okechukwu from Nnamdi Azikiwe University stressed the need for grassroots-driven peacebuilding efforts, while Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd) urged media to focus on criminal behavior rather than ethnic identity.