Tinubu Urges African Unity to Tackle Terrorism, Cybercrime, And Emerging Security Threats
By Anthonia N. Okwuolise, Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made a strong appeal to African nations to close ranks and work more closely together in tackling the many security challenges facing the continent. He noted that issues such as terrorism, cybercrime, piracy, and cross-border criminal networks have become serious threats that no single country can solve alone.
Speaking in Abuja at the maiden edition of the African Chiefs of Defence Staff Summit 2025, the President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, called for the creation of a new defence approach for Africa. This, he explained, should be built on trust, shared intelligence, and collective action among African militaries.
According to him, the threats facing Africa cut across borders and affect every nation, whether in the deserts where insurgents operate, on the seas where pirates attack, or in cyberspace where criminals hide behind computers. He stressed that since these challenges do not recognise boundaries, the response must also go beyond borders and be united.
President Tinubu compared Africa to one big family with a shared responsibility to protect each other. He remarked that the first true sign of love in such a family is the commitment to defend one another. He therefore urged African leaders to see security cooperation not as an option, but as a duty.
One of the major steps he suggested was the establishment of a permanent African Chiefs of Defence Staff Forum. This body, he explained, would serve as a platform for regular dialogue, joint planning, and effective coordination among African militaries. He warned that the summit should not end as a mere ceremonial event with speeches, but must be turned into a practical foundation for a stronger continental security system.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s position as a champion of regional peace, Tinubu highlighted the country’s involvement in peacekeeping operations, counterterrorism missions, and humanitarian efforts across Africa. He stressed the need for African countries to invest heavily in modern defence systems, including cyber defence, artificial intelligence, and home-grown military innovations. He explained that Africa must rise above being just a buyer of foreign technology and instead become a producer and owner of the tools needed to secure its future.
In his words, Africa must stop relying only on imported technologies. Rather, it should harness the creativity and innovation of its people to build sustainable security solutions. To achieve this, he encouraged stronger collaboration with the private sector in order to attract investment into defence research, innovation, and capacity development.
President Tinubu also used the occasion to honour the memory of African soldiers who paid the ultimate price in the fight against insecurity. He stated that their sacrifices should inspire the continent to build stronger institutions and values that will ensure lasting peace for generations to come. He emphasised that the best way to honour their legacy is to secure the future through unity, innovation, and strong partnerships.
