The Kulen Allah Vitality Self-Reliance Association (KACRAN) has called for an urgent diplomatic initiative to address the worsening insecurity in Northern Nigeria, following fresh attacks that reportedly claimed over 200 lives in parts of Niger State and Kwara State.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the association condemned what it described as a persistent cycle of killings, kidnappings and livestock rustling that has left communities devastated and rural livelihoods in ruins. It also expressed concern over the reported abduction of 176 persons in parts of Kwara State, urging security agencies to secure their immediate and unconditional release.
KACRAN acknowledged ongoing military operations against armed groups but maintained that force alone cannot secure lasting peace.
“Permanent peace is built on trust, dialogue and unity of purpose, not bullets alone,” the association stated, warning that prolonged militarisation of internal conflicts could deepen and complicate existing crises.
The group commended security efforts under President Bola Tinubu and praised the leadership of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa. While recognising the sacrifices of troops on the frontlines, it expressed concern that attacks persist despite a defence budget exceeding N5 trillion in 2026.
According to the association, the continued violence underscores the need for a complementary political and diplomatic framework to tackle root causes such as poverty, youth unemployment, communal mistrust and competition over land and grazing resources.
KACRAN proposed a “diplomatic roadmap” anchored on coordinated leadership among Northern governors and stakeholders, structured dialogue to rebuild trust in affected communities, and renewed economic investment in agriculture and youth empowerment.
It argued that redirecting resources toward job creation, infrastructure development and integrated agricultural growth—covering crop production, livestock and fisheries—would help remove the economic incentives driving criminal activities.
“Peace and security in the North is the bedrock of peace in Nigeria,” said Hon. Khalil Bello, National President of KACRAN, urging regional leaders to unite and take collective responsibility for restoring stability.
Northern Nigeria has endured years of overlapping security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, farmer-herder conflicts and organised criminal networks. The violence has displaced entire communities, forced school closures and left farmlands abandoned, exacerbating food insecurity and economic hardship.
Security analysts observe that while military operations have achieved tactical gains, the absence of sustained dialogue and comprehensive socio-economic reforms has allowed violence to recur in cycles. KACRAN warned that Nigeria must avoid prolonged instability and emphasised that inclusive engagement and unity remain essential to achieving durable peace.
