Air Chief advocates whole-of-society approach to tackle insecurity in South-East

Nigerian Air Force Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has urged a unified, society-wide strategy to combat insecurity in Nigeria's South-East region. Speaking at the South-East Regional Security Summit in Umuahia, Abia State, Aneke emphasized that military actions alone are insufficient to achieve lasting peace.

The summit, themed “Collaborative Approaches to Strengthening Security and Regional Stability,” was convened by the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa. Aneke highlighted the Nigerian Air Force's commitment, alongside other security agencies, to protecting lives and restoring peace. He assured participants that joint operations have significantly weakened criminal groups, creating a safer environment for residents and businesses.

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The Nigerian Air Force, along with its sister services and other security agencies, stands firmly with you in fighting insecurity. We are dedicated to ensuring that criminal elements no longer take the peace and economy of this region for granted.

However, Aneke stressed the need to address the underlying causes of insecurity. He called on governments, traditional rulers, community leaders, and youth groups to deepen engagement, mentor young people, and create opportunities to deter them from crime. He also urged residents to support security agencies by providing timely intelligence, reinforcing the principle of community cooperation.

Aneke described the summit as a testament to the collective resolve to restore peace, stability, and economic prosperity to the region. He commended the South-East Governors’ Forum and other stakeholders for their support, acknowledging the region's importance as a commercial and industrial hub despite recent challenges.

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Bombs and bullets do not address the root causes of insecurity. While military operations are necessary to create a secure environment, true and enduring peace requires a whole-of-society approach.