Experts have identified Nigeria’s worsening insecurity as a major threat to the construction industry, warning that persistent violence, banditry, insurgency and kidnapping are disrupting infrastructure projects, increasing construction costs and slowing economic growth.

They argued that while military action remains necessary, sustainable peace can only be achieved by addressing the socio-economic drivers of insecurity through infrastructure development, transparent procurement, job creation and improved governance.
The position was presented at the 18th Annual Distinguished Lecture of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), Lagos State Chapter, where security experts and construction professionals examined the theme, “Security and Economic Development: Evaluating the Role and Effect of the Construction Sector in Addressing Nigeria’s Insecurities.”

Delivering the keynote address in Lagos, Managing Director of Beacon Security and Intelligence Limited, Dr Kabir Adamu, represented by Co-founder Risk Solutions, Mrs Pamela Ugbonta, described security and economic development as inseparable. He said insecurity should no longer be viewed solely as a law enforcement issue but as a governance and development challenge fuelled by poverty, unemployment, weak institutions and poor infrastructure.
Adamu noted that despite Nigeria’s vast natural resources, millions remain trapped in poverty, while many young people lack access to education, vocational training and meaningful employment, making them vulnerable to recruitment by criminal groups.
He cited estimates showing that more than 4,000 people were killed in insecurity-related incidents between January 2025 and May 2026, while attacks on communities, businesses and public infrastructure continue to cost the country billions of dollars.

According to him, communities without roads, schools, healthcare facilities and markets often become isolated, creating opportunities for criminal organisations and insurgent groups to thrive.
He stressed that infrastructure should be regarded as a strategic national security asset, noting that every completed road, bridge, school, hospital and housing project strengthens government presence, restores public confidence and creates employment.

Adamu added that Nigeria’s housing deficit of over 28 million units and its huge infrastructure gap present an opportunity to generate millions of direct and indirect jobs, reducing the pool of unemployed youths susceptible to crime.

He also urged quantity surveyors to promote transparency, accountability and value for money in public projects, warning that inflated contracts, abandoned projects and procurement irregularities weaken public trust and worsen insecurity.

He further advocated incorporating Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles into infrastructure planning by providing adequate lighting, controlled access, improved visibility and regular maintenance to reduce crime opportunities.

Chairman of the NIQS Lagos State Chapter, Rilwan Balogun, said insecurity has become one of the biggest obstacles to construction activities nationwide, forcing contractors to spend heavily on security while discouraging investment in critical infrastructure.

According to him, unsafe roads, abandoned projects and poor planning have increased project costs, caused job losses and undermined public confidence.

Balogun called for greater government investment in infrastructure, particularly in rural communities, arguing that roads, schools, healthcare facilities and electricity create economic opportunities and reduce the appeal of criminal activities.

He also advocated legislation making the engagement of quantity surveyors compulsory in public infrastructure projects to improve planning, cost control and financial management.

Also speaking, NIQS President Aminu Mohammed Bashir, represented by Deputy President Bamidele Mafimidiwo, said Nigeria’s security challenges require solutions that extend beyond military operations.

He said the construction industry has enormous potential to address the root causes of insecurity by delivering infrastructure, creating jobs and rebuilding communities affected by conflict.

Quantity surveying expert John Agbezin added that the profession plays a vital role in ensuring accountability in public spending, preventing contract inflation and supporting post-conflict reconstruction.

He said transparent procurement, effective cost management and sustainable infrastructure delivery would strengthen public trust, stimulate economic growth and contribute significantly to national security.