Can the Nigerian Government Completely Eliminate Terrorism?

Nigeria’s rising insecurity, marked by frequent kidnappings, attacks on schools, and expanding bandit territories,has renewed a national debate: Can the government ever eliminate terrorism?

This question resurfaced after controversial Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi stated that total eradication of terrorism is impossible, not only in Nigeria but anywhere in the world.

His remarks come at a time when citizens are increasingly frustrated by the frequency of abductions and the government’s inability to prevent them.

Gumi: “No Government Can Completely Eliminate Terrorism”

Reacting to the recent kidnappings in Kwara State and other regions, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi urged Nigerians to be patient and avoid panic. According to him, expecting a total end to terrorism is unrealistic, even for the most powerful countries.

“No government can completely eliminate terrorism. Even countries like the United States still contend with their own security challenges,” Gumi said.

Gumi Claims Nigeria’s Security Situation Is Improving

Despite widespread fear and anger across the country, Gumi insisted that Nigeria’s security environment has shown signs of improvement. He encouraged Nigerians to acknowledge progress instead of focusing solely on negative incidents.

“Things are improving. Nigerians should be patient and avoid panic.”

Many Nigerians disagree, arguing that the situation is worsening, especially with the recent surge in school abductions.

Warning About Foreign Influence and Religious Manipulation

Gumi also issued a controversial warning about alleged foreign interference. He claimed some external actors are exploiting religion, particularly Christianity, to create division and mistrust among Nigerians.

“Some foreigners are trying to use Christianity to create divisions among Nigerians. We must not allow this. Nigeria’s religious communities have coexisted peacefully for generations.”

Can Terrorism Ever Be Fully Eliminated?

Globally, experts agree that terrorism is difficult to eradicate entirely. However, it can be drastically reduced through long-term and strategic efforts, such as:

• Strengthening intelligence and surveillance
  
• Improving coordination among security agencies
  
• Addressing poverty, unemployment, and social inequality
  
• Disrupting the financial networks of armed groups
  
• Strengthening border security
  
• Investing in community policing and local security structures