By Samson Kukwa-Yanor and Joy Dennis

Nigeria’s former Head-of-State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has stated that Nigeria’s security challenges are man-made, adding that it is possible to amicably resolve them.
   
His remark over the weekend in Makurdi during the Benue at 50 celebrations came on the heels of the country’s deteriorating national security, with rising cases of kidnapping, terrorism and banditry bedevilling the nation.   
   
The event combined the finale of the week-long jubilee with the celebration of Governor Hyacinth Alia’s third anniversary in office and his 60th birthday.
   
Meanwhile, the Catholic Bishop of Yola Diocese, Stephen Mamza, has said the federal government is yet to demonstrate the political will needed to end the lingering insecurity across Nigeria.
   
Speaking shortly after celebrating the closing mass of the 2026 Yola Diocesan Pastoral Council in Yola, Mamza expressed concern at the continued killings, kidnappings, banditry and attacks on communities, noting that the persistent insecurity has left many Nigerians living in fear and uncertainty.
   
Extolling the people of Benue for their resilience and agricultural prowess, Gowon said, however, that he cannot “avoid referring to the unfortunate conflicts and insecurity.
   
“Whichever some may wish to call it, the recent conflicts are man-made. The simmering conflicts can be resolved amicably and very peacefully.
   
“It is my wish and desire to encourage the leaders of the various ethnic groups to initiate a robust dialogue aimed at a peaceful relationship and co-existence. Categorically, I can say without fear of contradiction that it is possible to initiate a new beginning.”
   
On his part, President Bola Tinubu said that Benue is not only well-positioned to become Nigeria’s agricultural powerhouse but also the technological hub of the nation.
   
Tinubu, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, commended Governor Alia for what he described as his “commitment in strengthening governance, infrastructure, improving agriculture and unlocking the immense potentials of Benue State.”
   
According to the president, the event was not only a celebration of the state’s 50th anniversary but also of the people’s resilience and survival, and a salute to every teacher, civil servant, farmer and everybody who has contributed to the growth of the state.
   
Meanwhile, Alia eulogised the founding fathers of the state, including the first military governor, Col. Abdullahi Shelleng, and all his predecessors up to the immediate past, Samuel Ortom, as well as other Benue leaders, including Senator David Mark, describing them as the people the state remembers for their service and contributions to building a modern Benue.
   
According to the governor, while “the first 50 years gave the state her identity, the next 50 years will define her greatness.”
   
Nevertheless, Bishop Mamza stated that despite the repeated assurances by government authorities, the security situation in many parts of the country has shown little improvement, raising questions about the commitment of those responsible for protecting lives and property.
   
Against this background, Mamza insisted that the government must go beyond promises and take decisive action to address the security challenges confronting the nation, adding that the safety of citizens should remain the foremost responsibility of any administration.
   
He further urged the federal government to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve the welfare of security personnel and ensure greater collaboration among security agencies to effectively tackle criminal elements.