By Adenike Ayodele
Legal luminary, Prof. Yusuf Ali (SAN), has called for the adoption of a human-centered framework in Nigeria’s national security policies to ensure lasting peace and stability.
Ali made the call while delivering a keynote address titled, “The Impact of National Security Policies on Vulnerable Populations: A Human Rights Perspective”, at the Gavel International Annual Lecture and Awards Conference, on Tuesday in Ikeja.
The learned silk said that while national security was a legitimate and vital concern, its pursuit often led to the violation of the rights of vulnerable groups such as women, children, refugees and persons with disabilities.
According to him, a truly secure state is one that protects, rather than undermines the dignity and liberty of its citizens.
“National security must go hand-in-hand with human rights.
“The measure of a nation’s strength lies not only in its military might but in how it treats its most vulnerable people,” he said.
Ali further emphasised that policies such as the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Cybercrimes Act, 2015, though essential, had been implemented in ways that sometimes infringed on basic rights like freedom of movement, expression and privacy.
Ali urged the government to integrate human rights principles into all national security measures, strengthen accountability and oversight mechanisms, as well as enhance engagement with civil society groups.
He also advocated inclusiveness in policy formulation, periodic human rights audits of security operations, as well as adequate funding for security institutions to promote professionalism and respect for human dignity.
“National security should be about securing people’s lives and freedoms, not limiting them.
“Nigeria’s stability depends on the government’s ability to balance state protection with the protection of its citizens.
“Adopting a human-centered security framework will not only strengthen democracy but also restore citizens’ confidence in governance and justice,” the senior lawyer said.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotosho, in his goodwill message, called for a balanced approach to national security that safeguards the rights and dignity of vulnerable citizens while maintaining public safety.
Omotoso said that security remained the foundation of every thriving society but warned that the pursuit of safety must not come at the expense of citizens’ freedoms.
According to him, true national security is not only about “guns and borders”, but also about creating an environment where people feel safe, valued and included.
The commissioner highlighted that under Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, Lagos had adopted a people-centered approach to governance, through initiatives such as the security trust fund, smart city projects and collaboration among security agencies.
Omotoso added that ministries like youth and social development, women affairs and civic engagement continue to empower vulnerable populations to ensure that state policies remain inclusive and rehabilitative.
The publisher of Gavel International, Mr Mustapha Ogunsakin, in his welcome address, called on Nigeria’s political class to rise above partisanship and unite in tackling the nation’s worsening security challenges.
Ogunsakin called for collective action and accountable leadership to confront the existential threats facing the nation, noting that security remains the foundation of peace and prosperity.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its efforts to end terrorism and urged greater support for the military through enhanced funding and modern technology.
Some of the personalities honoured at the lecture included former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN); Dr. Gbenga Oyebode; Dr Attia Nasreddin; Chief Anthony George-Ikoli; Mr Richard Akinnola; Dr Oludare Bello and Mr Lere Fashola. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Folasade Adeniran
