Nigeria Under Pressure: Global and Local Forces Push for Real Action on Insecurity

Nigeria is facing intense pressure to tackle insecurity from global powers, lawmakers, new defence leadership, and citizens who have grown weary of violence. Recent developments make one thing clear: decisive action is long overdue. Global Spotlight The United States recently announced visa restrictions for individuals involved in religious-related attacks including their family members. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the violence against Christians and other extremist-driven attacks as “unacceptable,” signalling that Washington is prepared to escalate consequences. This comes after former U.S. President Donald Trump hinted that military action could be an option if killings persist. The message is unmistakable: the world is watching Nigeria’s handling of security. Lawmakers Demand Transparency At home, the National Assembly is pushing for tougher measures. Lawmakers want terrorism financiers publicly identified and prosecuted. They also propose classifying kidnapping as terrorism, with stricter penalties for not only perpetrators but also informants, logistics providers, and financiers. “Insecurity is now commercialised and organised,” Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said. “Soft penalties only strengthen criminal networks.” New Defence Leadership Under Scrutiny Defence Minister General Chris Musa (rtd) faces intense expectations. During his Senate screening, he promised full investigations into recent security lapses, including troop withdrawals before the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi. Musa emphasised a zero-tolerance approach, enhanced school protection, and stronger inter-agency coordination. “I cannot afford to fail. Nigerians expect so much,” he said, acknowledging the weight of public trust. But can a single appointment reverse years of systemic weaknesses? That remains an open question. Europe Joins the Chorus The European Union reaffirmed that insecurity threatens Nigeria’s growth, stability, and democracy. At its end-of-year briefing, the EU promised increased funding for peace-building, humanitarian relief, and regional intelligence support, while stressing that continued violence undermines investment and governance. A Country at a Crossroads With U.S. sanctions, EU concerns, legislative pressure, and the expectations on new defence leadership, Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment. The central questions linger: Who is financing terrorism? Why haven’t they been publicly named? Can Nigeria win this fight without transparency and accountability? The opportunity is real. But without swift, decisive action, strong words risk becoming another cycle of empty promises.