The President General of the United Nations Association of Africa (UNAA), Ambassador Sylvester Okafor, has raised serious concerns over the increasing wave of terrorism in Nigeria, particularly the emergence of a new terror group in Sokoto State, which, alongside escalating violence in other regions like the South-East, poses a growing threat to the country.
In a press statement released from the United States, signed by Amb. Okafor and made available to journalists in Abuja on Tuesday by the UNAA’s Director of Communications, Ambassador Nwokoma Messiah, the UNAA President underscored the urgent need for the Nigerian government to reassess its security strategies. He warned that the current level of insecurity is undermining efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), crucial for Nigeria’s socio-economic progress.
A new group, known as ‘Lakurawa,’ has been terrorising the residents of Sokoto and Kebbi States, leaving a trail of destruction, including the loss of lives and property, while also preventing farmers from accessing their lands. This new wave of terror has added to the already existing security challenges in the country, calling for immediate government intervention.
“The rise of these terror groups is a grave concern for all Nigerians. It is imperative that the federal government reassesses its strategies and allocates the necessary resources to address this burgeoning crisis,” said Amb. Okafor. “Insecurity hampers development, and if left unchecked, it will reverse the progress we’ve made towards our national and international commitments.”
He emphasized that insecurity not only threatens the lives of Nigerian citizens but also poses a direct challenge to achieving the SDGs, particularly in the areas of economic stability, education, healthcare, and peace. Amb. Okafor urged the federal government to take decisive action, including strengthening collaborations with international partners and investing in local peace-building initiatives.
Furthermore, he called for a greater role for local leaders and communities in combating terrorism. “Sustainable solutions must involve the participation of those most affected by the violence,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of community-driven strategies to restore peace and stability.
Amb. Okafor reaffirmed UNAA’s commitment to supporting both the Nigerian government and civil society in their efforts to tackle insecurity. “We stand ready to work alongside the government and civil society to ensure peace and stability in Nigeria, creating an environment where development can thrive and the SDGs can be realised,” he added.
