Nigerian stakeholders advocate for stronger families and institutions to combat insecurity
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
At the 2026 Nowa Omoigui Memorial Lecture, stakeholders discussed the need for stronger families and functional institutions with renewed public trust to address insecurity in Nigeria. The virtual event, moderated by veteran journalist Reuben Abati, focused on "Holding the Centre: Family, Institutions, and Public Trust in an Age of Insecurity." Professor Attahiru Jega, former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, emphasized that effective institutions are central to national stability, warning that weak structures lead to insecurity and a loss of confidence in government. He cited the rise of internet fraudsters and bandits as examples of institutional failure and linked jungle justice to the inability of government agencies to perform their duties. Dr. Charles Omole noted that despite significant budgetary allocations to defense, insecurity continues to displace millions of Nigerians, recommending peace-building initiatives, youth empowerment, proper funding for peace missions, and stronger family support systems. Dr. Boluwaji Omabolu highlighted water scarcity and sanitation challenges as overlooked drivers of instability, affecting education and healthcare. Dr. Osahon Enabulele identified leadership failure and declining public confidence in governance as major contributors to insecurity, calling for electoral reforms and measures to rebuild trust. Participants agreed that military action alone cannot solve insecurity, stressing the need for holistic r
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 10 countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Philip Shaibu, the Director-General of the National Institute for Sports, has announced a two-year strategy to tackle the estimated two-million coaching shortfall in Nigerian sports. During a visit to the Nigeria Football Federation office in Abuja, Shaibu sought collaboration with the NFF to implement this plan, which he believes will significantly transform the coaching sector. He noted that recent admissions at the institute showed 117 out of 232 students were football coaches, highlighting football's prominence. Ibrahim Gusau, President of the NFF, expressed the federation's readiness to support the institute's objectives, citing their own initiatives in coach development, including CAF C Licence programs for women coaches and plans for a CAF A Licence course. Gusau also suggested engaging Ministers and State Commissioners for Education for broader support. Mohammed Sanusi, NFF General Secretary, recommended incorporating a diploma program in sports administration into the institute's curriculum.
The Lagos Waste Management Authority LAWMA is collaborating with the youth-based organization EKO 57 Support Group to mobilize young people across Lagos State for environmental cleanliness and responsible waste management. Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, stated that the agency is a significant employer, engaging over 100,000 youths directly and indirectly in its operations. This partnership aims to expand LAWMA's advocacy and sensitization efforts across all 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development areas of Lagos State. Gbadegesin emphasized the crucial role of young people in enhancing environmental awareness and promoting positive behavioral changes within communities. He noted LAWMA's ongoing efforts to work with community leaders and associations to strengthen grassroots engagement and ensure compliance with waste management guidelines. Leaders of EKO 57 Support Group, Adams Kehinde and Mrs. Remilekun Oshodi, praised LAWMA's initiative, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility and active youth participation for a cleaner, more sustainable Lagos.
Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has commended Nigeria teammate Victor Osimhen's strong winning mentality, attributing it to the striker's success in world football. Speaking on the Beast Mode On Podcast, Iwobi highlighted Osimhen's intensity in training and his refusal to hold back, even admitting that Osimhen sometimes "cheats just to win." Iwobi noted that Osimhen's rise is not surprising to those who know him, emphasizing his work rate and determination to create scoring opportunities. He added that Osimhen approaches every game with the same intensity, regardless of the opponent's stature, and is known for putting his body on the line. Osimhen has scored 35 goals in 51 appearances for Nigeria.
Ademola Lookman is a significant doubt for Atlético Madrid's Champions League semi-final match against Arsenal after sustaining an injury in the Copa del Rey final. The 28-year-old Nigerian forward is expected to miss upcoming games against Elche and Athletic Club. Atlético confirmed that both Lookman and Alexander Sørloth experienced physical discomfort at the end of the final and are now undergoing individual recovery programs. The club's medical services have advised caution to prevent further injury risks, and their return to training will depend on the evolution of their conditions. Reports from marca.com indicate that both players are sidelined and face a race against time to recover for the Arsenal fixture. Lookman, who was substituted in the final, is dealing with swelling in his adductor muscle and is anticipated to be out for at least a week. With Arsenal visiting the Metropolitano on April 29, the recovery timeline is tight, though Lookman has started working with medical staff. His potential absence would be a considerable setback for Atlético, given his impact since joining in the winter transfer window. His goal in the Copa del Rey final brought his total goal contributions to 11, the second highest in the squad during that period, and he became the first Nigerian to score in the competition's final since Finidi George in 1997.