Kaduna security woes exaggerated — NIPR

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has offered a measured perspective on the security situation in Kaduna State, suggesting that public perception may be more dire than the reality on the ground.

During a media tour of government projects, NIPR's Planning Committee Chairman, Chief Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, acknowledged that Kaduna faces security challenges, similar to other regions. However, he asserted that the situation is not as severe as often portrayed. He revealed that the NIPR itself faced external pressure to move its 2026 Nigeria Public Relations Week from Kaduna due to these perceived security concerns.

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Yes, it has some challenges like every other place, but I think two things: efforts have been made to tackle this issue, and then secondly, it’s not as bad as what people think.

While commending the state government's efforts, particularly the Command and Control Centre, Okusanya advised enhanced communication to both residents and the broader public regarding security measures. He also proposed extending the Command and Control Centre model to all 23 local government areas. The NIPR's visit also included inspections of healthcare and educational facilities, highlighting the government's broader development agenda alongside its security efforts. This local perspective from a national professional body offers a counterpoint to widespread narratives, emphasizing ongoing efforts and improvements within the state.

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There were a lot of outside pressures discouraging us from holding the event in Kaduna, arguing that the state is not safe.