The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has called on scholars, church leaders, policymakers, and researchers to move beyond theoretical discussions and develop practical solutions to Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
Adeboye made the appeal while addressing participants at an academic gathering, where he stressed the need for collaborative efforts to tackle the country’s worsening insecurity through research-driven and implementable strategies.
He said Nigeria’s security crisis requires more than intellectual debate, urging academics and professionals to channel their expertise into developing solutions that can positively influence public policy and improve the safety of citizens.
According to the cleric, institutions of higher learning and research organisations have a critical role to play in addressing national challenges by producing ideas that can be translated into effective policies and practical interventions.
He encouraged scholars to undertake research focused on the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, unemployment, social inequality, and weak institutions, while proposing sustainable approaches to addressing the underlying issues.
Adeboye noted that insecurity continues to affect communities across the country, disrupting economic activities, education, agriculture, and the general well-being of Nigerians.
He said the situation demands collective action involving government institutions, religious organisations, the private sector, civil society groups, and academic institutions.
The RCCG leader also urged policymakers to make greater use of research findings and expert recommendations when designing security policies and development programmes.
He argued that evidence-based policymaking would help improve governance and enhance the effectiveness of efforts aimed at combating insecurity.
Adeboye further challenged church leaders and other faith-based organisations to complement government initiatives by promoting peace, unity, moral values, and community engagement.
He said religious institutions should continue to encourage dialogue, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence among diverse groups while supporting programmes that address the social conditions contributing to crime and violence.
The cleric expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome its security challenges through innovation, collaboration, and responsible leadership.
He urged scholars to view their research as a tool for national development rather than merely an academic exercise, emphasizing the importance of producing knowledge that directly benefits society.
His remarks come amid persistent concerns over kidnapping, banditry, terrorism, communal clashes, and other security threats affecting different parts of the country.
Stakeholders have repeatedly called for a comprehensive approach to tackling insecurity, combining military operations with investments in education, job creation, intelligence gathering, justice sector reforms, and community-based conflict prevention.
Adeboye’s call adds to ongoing national conversations about the role of academia and research institutions in supporting governance and addressing Nigeria’s most pressing developmental and security challenges.
He concluded by encouraging universities, think tanks, and professional bodies to strengthen partnerships with government agencies and communities in order to develop practical, sustainable solutions capable of restoring peace and improving national security.
