Security conference will proffer non-kinetic solutions to Benue insecurity – D-G

The Director-General of Benue Public Service Institute (BPSI), Prof. Terkura Tarnande says the homeland security conference organised by the institute is to proffer non-kinetic solutions to the insecurity bedevilling the state.

Tarnande stated this on Wednesday in Makurdi at the opening of a 3-day conference with the theme “Ensuring Safety and Security of Benue State: Collaboration, Innovation and Preparedness”.

The D-G said that Gov. Hyacinth Alia had substantially utilised the kinetic approach to address the situation.

“The governor had retained the anti-open grazing prohibition law; he empowered regular security agencies to carry out their function.

“The governor also created the Benue State Civil Protection Guards and the Operation Anyam Nyor to curb insecurity.

“The conference is to suggest ways that the challenges will be resolved without the use of force or arms,” he said.

Dr Mark Nyitse, BPSI Director of Research and Publications, said that Benue’s security challenges required collaborative efforts, innovative solutions, and preparedness to address.

“We have brought together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from various fields to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in homeland security.

“We will explore strategies for enhancing collaboration among security agencies, leveraging innovation and technology to stay ahead of threats, and building preparedness to respond to emergencies.

“Over the next few days, we will engage in robust discussions, share experiences, and explore innovative solutions to enhance security in Benue.

“We will examine the root causes of insecurity, assess our current security architecture, and identify areas for improvement.

“We will also explore strategies for strengthening our security agencies, enhancing community policing, and promoting inter-agency collaboration,” he said.

Nyitse, who is the local organising committee chairman, said that the conference would discuss the role of technology in homeland security, including the use of surveillance systems, intelligence gathering, and cybersecurity.

He further said that the conference was not just about discussing security challenges; it was also about finding solutions so that government and other stakeholders can exploit them to ensure the safety of all.

His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Ayatse, the Tor Tiv, urged the government to facilitate the safe return of internally displaced persons to their ancestral homes.

Ayatse, who was represented by Chief Moses Anagende, the Tor Lobi, said Benue was sitting on a time bomb, if the displaced persons did not return to their homes.

The traditional ruler appreciated the institute for championing the course for the non-kinetic approach to the insecurity.

He described the move as appropriate and timely, having exhausted the kinetic approach.