A public affairs commentator, Patrick Yakubu, has called on the Minister of Defence to intensify efforts to tackle Nigeria’s security challenges, arguing that improving safety across the country should be a top priority as the 2027 general elections approach.
In an opinion piece titled “From Rhetoric to Responsibility: Time for the Defence Minister to Defend Nigerians,” Yakubu said insecurity remains one of the biggest concerns for many Nigerians and warned that continued attacks by terrorists, bandits and kidnappers could undermine public confidence in the administration.
According to him, citizens are increasingly frustrated by recurring incidents of violence and are demanding concrete actions rather than official statements and condolences after attacks.
Yakubu argued that the Ministry of Defence should focus on delivering measurable improvements in security, stating that the minister’s performance would ultimately be judged by the safety of lives and property across the country.
He also claimed that some Nigerians perceive the minister as placing greater emphasis on public engagements than on addressing security operations, and urged him to concentrate more on supporting military efforts to curb insecurity.
The commentator maintained that the minister still has an opportunity to shape a positive legacy through decisive leadership, noting that success should be measured by whether farmers can safely return to their fields, travellers can move freely on highways and communities can live without fear.
Yakubu further warned that if insecurity persists, it could become a major political challenge for the Federal Government ahead of the 2027 elections, as citizens may judge the administration based on its ability to provide security.
He concluded by urging the Defence Minister to justify the confidence reposed in him by ensuring that the Ministry of Defence fulfils what he described as its core responsibility of protecting Nigerians and securing the nation.