Why insecurity persists in Africa – Peter Obi

The Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate in the 2023 Nigerian elections, Peter Obi, has indicated that insecurity plaguing Africa is deeply connected to poverty, unemployment, and corruption.

Obi’s spokesman Ibrahim Umar in a statement quoted him to have made the assertion over the weekend during an international leadership dialogue in Athens, Greece.

Speaking at the event, Obi highlighted that despite Africa’s abundant resources, over 50% of its population remains multi-dimensionally poor, with Nigeria and Congo having over 60% of their populations living in poverty.

He described this as a major driver of the continent’s security challenges.

“In my presentation, I emphasized that Africa’s security challenges cannot be separated from its high levels of poverty, inequality, and corruption,” Obi said.

He further noted that many African governments underinvest in critical sectors like health and education, which worsens poverty and unemployment.

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“Urgent action is required to lift people out of poverty, address growing inequality, and strengthen collective security across Africa,” Obi said.

Obi also expressed concern over the growing influence of non-state actors in providing security in many African nations, a situation he attributed to the weakening role of the state in maintaining law and order.

“Future African leaders must act with urgency and boldness to address these issues. We must invest in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities to drive people-centered development. Only by tackling poverty, unemployment, and corruption can we restore peace and security in Africa,” Obi said.

He reiterated that Nigeria possesses the resources and capacity to lead this transformative change and he remains committed to building a new and secure nation.