African stakeholders call for strategic leadership to combat security threats

Security experts and leaders across Africa have pinpointed strategic leadership as essential for confronting a growing array of security challenges. These stakeholders, including intelligence professionals and risk managers, gathered at the 2026 retreat of ASIS International Chapter 206 in Ibadan, Oyo State, to discuss the evolving threat landscape.

The discussions focused on navigating complex environments marked by terrorism, organized crime, cyber threats, climate pressures, and geopolitical instability. Retired Major General Charles Ofoché, in his keynote address, urged organizations to move beyond reactive crisis management. He stressed that effective security leadership now demands the ability to anticipate risks, adapt swiftly, and build resilience. Ofoché noted that many contemporary threats are interconnected, necessitating a departure from traditional security approaches.

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From violent extremism and organised crime to cyber insecurity, demographic pressures and climate-related conflicts, the risks confronting institutions are increasingly interconnected.

Olufemi Kayode, Chairman of ASIS International Chapter 206, described the retreat as a direct response to Nigeria's shifting security realities. He highlighted persistent issues such as kidnapping, organized criminality, cybercrime, and maritime insecurity, which continue to pressure organizations and communities. Kayode emphasized that continuous learning and professional development are indispensable in this environment. The chapter aims to bolster industry capacity through certification programs, strategic partnerships, and development initiatives, including upcoming university roadshows to mentor future security practitioners.

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In my view, the changing threat landscape has made continuous learning, strategic thinking and professional development more important than ever.