VP Shettima advocates tech-driven strategies to combat insecurity in Nigeria
By Kunle Sanni
Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for the adoption of technology-driven strategies to tackle terrorism, cybercrime, and border security challenges affecting Nigeria and the broader African continent.
He emphasized that while Africa and Nigeria are currently facing some of their most pressing security and economic challenges, these issues require innovative and technology-based solutions.
Speaking on Monday during a courtesy visit by members of the Executive Intelligence Management Course 17 from the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS), VP Shettima acknowledged the ongoing security and economic challenges in Nigeria, stating, “Africa and Nigeria are navigating some of the most troubling times, especially in the security and economic sectors. The challenges we face demand innovative solutions, and artificial intelligence (AI) offers vast opportunities to address key areas like agriculture, healthcare, financial inclusion, and security.”
Drawing on Franklin D. Roosevelt’s famous words, he urged resilience, saying, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
VP Shettima also commended the Governor of Enugu State for successfully implementing security measures to curb the activities of criminal elements exploiting security gaps. He remarked, “This is a testament to what can be achieved with the right strategies.”
He further highlighted Nigeria’s youthful population, which has an average age of 16.9 years, as a significant asset. “Africa is the youngest continent, and our tech-savvy youth are essential in bridging the skill gaps necessary to tackle these challenges. Where there is a will, there is always a way,” he affirmed.
The Vice President pointed to the success of Nigerian unicorns such as Moniepoint, Interswitch, Flutterwave, and OPay, noting, “Despite our infrastructural deficits, these companies show that with innovation and determination, we can achieve remarkable success.”
Senator Shettima urged leaders and participants to remain optimistic and proactive, saying, “Let the challenges we face inspire us to put in our best efforts. Our youth hold the key to AI-driven progress in agriculture, health, and finance. Together, we can overcome these obstacles and build a prosperous future for Nigeria and Africa.”
Addressing the dual potential of AI, VP Shettima stated, “AI can help us combat emerging threats like terrorism and cybercrime while also enhancing border security. By leveraging technology, we can replicate successful African models and apply them domestically.”
Earlier, Commandant Joseph Obule Odama of NISS lauded the success of the Executive Intelligence Management Course 17, which began in February 2024 with 91 participants from Nigeria’s military, paramilitary forces, federal and state ministries, and five African countries—Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Rwanda, and The Gambia.
“The theme of this year’s course, ‘Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Economies in Africa: Challenges and Prospects,’ has fostered rigorous academic discussions, strategic thinking, and innovative problem-solving,” Odama said.
“Since its inception, NISS has graduated 961 participants, significantly enhancing national security strategies and international cooperation,” he added.
