By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Umuahia, Abia State – The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, on Thursday, July 30, 2026, declared that lasting peace in the South-East is vital to Nigeria’s unity, economic growth and national development. Speaking at the 2026 South-East Regional Security Summit in Umuahia, Idris urged governments, security agencies, traditional rulers and citizens to strengthen collaboration because improved security will boost investment, democracy and prosperity across the country.
South-East Security Key to National Development
Mohammed Idris stressed that peace in the South-East directly strengthens Nigeria’s stability and future.
“When the South-East is secure, Nigeria is stronger. When every region enjoys peace, our democracy flourishes. And when we stand together as one people, united by a common destiny, no force can diminish the promise of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
Speaking on the summit’s theme, “Collaborative Approaches to Strengthening Security and Regional Stability,” the minister said security demands a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach.
He explained that federal and state governments, security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society groups and citizens must work together to achieve lasting peace.
Tinubu Administration Reaffirms Commitment to Security
Idris reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the South-East and Nigeria.
He said the administration continues to strengthen intelligence sharing, improve coordination among security agencies and provide modern equipment.
The minister also highlighted international partnerships aimed at enhancing national security.
According to him, security remains the foundation for investment, education, agriculture and sustainable economic growth.
Infrastructure and Youth Empowerment Support Peace
The minister said the Federal Government’s security strategy extends beyond military operations.
He noted that investments in infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, digital skills and support for small businesses help reduce insecurity by creating opportunities.
Furthermore, Idris urged citizens to reject misinformation and support ongoing constitutional reforms on state policing.
He added that peace thrives where justice, inclusion, opportunity and hope exist.
National Assembly Pledges Legislative Backing
Representing Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, assured participants that the National Assembly would continue supporting reforms that strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
He said insecurity requires strong partnerships among government institutions, security agencies, traditional leaders, civil society organisations and communities.
According to him, lasting peace depends on collaboration rather than isolated efforts.
Benjamin Kalu Calls for Action Beyond Dialogue
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, urged stakeholders to move from discussions to practical implementation.
He said stronger regional cooperation and institutional reforms would improve security across the South-East.
Kalu also reaffirmed the House of Representatives’ commitment to legislative and constitutional reforms that support national security.
Alex Otti Highlights Security as Foundation of Prosperity
Abia State Governor Alex Otti described security as the cornerstone of development.
He warned that meaningful progress cannot occur where fear and insecurity persist.
The governor also stressed the importance of creating jobs for young people, improving intelligence sharing and addressing the root causes of crime.
Defence Minister Calls for Shared Responsibility
Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd.), said protecting Nigerians requires collective responsibility.
He explained that security is not the duty of the Armed Forces and Police alone.
Instead, communities, governments and citizens must actively support national security efforts.
Musa added that enhanced training, improved intelligence gathering, modern equipment and stronger inter-agency cooperation continue to strengthen Nigeria’s security response.
Stakeholders Attend South-East Security Summit
The summit attracted senior government officials, lawmakers, military leaders, governors’ representatives, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and security chiefs from across the South-East.
The event focused on building stronger partnerships to promote regional stability, national unity and sustainable development.
