By Sumaila Ogbaje

Mr Patrick Agbambu, International Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of Africa Security Watch, says over 70 per cent of Africa remains affected by various levels of insecurity.

Agbambu disclosed this in Abuja on Monday while speaking with newsmen on the upcoming 18th edition of Africa Security Watch Award and Conference slated for December in Doha, Qatar.

He said that insecurity in the continent had resulted stagnation of development and fears with too many of the citizens trapped in poverty.

“It is within this context that we at the Security Watch Africa Initiatives (SWAI) have chosen the theme for the 18th Africa Security Watch Awards & Conference: “Developing Modules for People-Centric Governance towards the Enhancement of Peace and Security in Africa”, he said.

Agbambu said that Gov. Babatunde Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and his Borno counterpart, Prof. Babagana Zulum, were billed to speak at the event.

He said the Lagos State Governor would deliver a key paper on the conference theme focusing on Lagos example.

He added that the theme was carefully chosen to speak directly to the heart of the challenges and set the stage for actionable discussions that would help pave the way for a more peaceful and secure Africa.

According to him, the foremost responsibility of any government or leadership is to ensure the safety, security and well-being of its citizens.

He said it was through responsive and people-centred governance that societies can thrive, where policies are crafted with the people in mind, ensuring peace, stability, and security for all.

“Sadly, our beloved continent of Africa continues to face significant challenges in this regard.

“The conference is designed to deliver a practical and insightful solution to various security challenges in Africa with the selection of distinguished keynote speakers, lead paper presenters, and panellists from across the continent and beyond.

“These esteemed individuals will address critical topics that are pivotal to shaping a secure future for Africa,” he said.

Agbambu said that 30 personalities, corporate organisations and agencies from across Africa will be awarded with Crystal Award Trophies in recognition of their outstanding contributions to peace and security on the African continent.

“At Security Watch Africa Initiatives, we believe that security encompasses everything that threatens human lives and valuables, and this is reflected in our award categories.

“From leadership and governance to the armed forces, police, medical professionals, the media, hospitality, transportation, and humanitarian service honour those who make our continent safer and better,” he added.

A member of Board of Trustee, retired Brig.-Gen. Sani Kukasheka Usman, said the choice of Qatar was both symbolic and practical.

According to Usman, it exemplifies a country that places immense value on humanity, consistently striving to enhance the quality of life for its people.

“We believe that participants will experience the best practices in that country and through this experience, we can learn invaluable lessons that can be applied in Africa.

“In addition, we are bringing some Qatar’s senior government and security officials to engage with our participants and share insights on their approach to security and governance.

“Most importantly, this event will once again provide a platform to showcase African finest to a global audience,” he said. (NAN)