On Friday, 26th July 2024, I had the privilege of being one of three individuals invited by the Institute for Development Research and Training (IDR&T), at the famous Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, to serve as a discussant at the dialogue themed, “Assessing the Present Security Situation in Northern Nigeria” in which General CG Musa OFR, Chief of Defence Staff, was the Guest Speaker. The momentous event took place at the magnificent CBN Centre of Excellence, ABU Business School, Samaru, Zaria.

Our Chief Host was Professor Kabiru Bala, Vice-Chancellor of ABU Zaria, while Dr. Muhammad Kabir Salihu, Director of IDR&T, ably served as our host. The historic occasion was graced by His Royal Highness, Ambassador Mallam Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli CFR, Emir of Zazzau, represented by Fagacin Zazzau as the Royal Father of the Day. My esteemed co-discussants were the highly respected Professor Abubakar Aliyu Liman and Professor Tanimu Abubakar, both distinguished scholars from ABU Zaria.

The dialogue proved to be both revealing and enriching. The guest speaker, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, Chief of Defence Staff, delivered a presentation that was both educative and engaging, paving the way for frank discussions and substantial contributions during the interactive session. The occasion facilitated a profound cross-fertilization of ideas, all aimed at better understanding and finding lasting solutions to the pervasive insecurity in Northern Nigeria.

Therefore, I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the organizers, the IDR&T, ABU Zaria, for their deep concern about the insecurity in Northern Nigeria and for inviting me to be a discussant at the historic event. I also commend them for their excellent choice of General Christopher Gwabin Musa OFR, as the guest speaker. His unwavering commitment to a secure and prosperous Nigeria, coupled with his extensive experience and sincerity of purpose, made his participation particularly impactful.

The success of the dialogue is evident in the renewed understanding and enthusiasm displayed by all participants and the commitment of the organisers in ensuring that the recommendations make the desired impact and their assured determination to build on and sustain the laudable inituative. I also wish to commend the students, staff of ABU, and invited guests for their remarkable turnout, filling the auditorium to the brim. Their presence and engagement were a testament to the importance of this dialogue and the collective effort towards strengthening security in Northern Nigeria and our country as a whole.

Brigadier General SK Usman (retd)