Five ways communities can strengthen defenses against criminal attacks

Criminal gangs often exploit weak vigilance, poor information sharing, and isolated environments. The security crisis, which has evolved from a localized insurgency in the North-East, now includes terrorism, banditry, mass abductions, and communal violence nationwide. Between May 2023 and April 2024, an estimated 2,235,954 Nigerians were kidnapped, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.

While security agencies combat these crimes, community members play a critical role in prevention and reporting. The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria recognizes the right to self-defense. Five practical ways communities can strengthen their defenses include building strong community intelligence networks by selecting trusted individuals to monitor and report suspicious activities, as suggested by former Deputy Director of Defence Administration Commodore Kunle Olawunmi retd. and retired Army colonel Yomi Dare.

Promoting vigilance and community awareness through regular forums and encouraging residents to report suspicious movements is also crucial. Strengthening collaboration with security agencies, including the police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Department of State Services, and local vigilante groups, is essential, as emphasized by Dare and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun. Improving personal and