Involve traditional rulers in intelligence gathering, Monguno tells security agencies

THE National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno, has said the war against insurgency can only be won through concerted and collaborative efforts among security agencies in the country.

Monguno, who called for more collaboration among security agencies, said there is need to involve traditional rulers in intelligence gathering.

He said this is essential because the traditional rulers know the lay of their land and also know those who reside within the sphere of their authorities.

The NSA, speaking yesterday at the third quarterly meeting of secretaries of state governments (SSGs) in Abuja, said, “If you disengage community leaders, you will not have the type of intelligence you need.”

He added, “Right now, security agencies do not work together as closely as expected. We have been trying to ensure unity of purpose, unity of operation.

“Whether we like it or not, in Nigeria, we fundamentally rely on traditional institutions. They are essential to security and if they do not carry the kind of authority they ought to, we cannot recalibrate the entire political structure.

“Leave out our traditional rulers, you will begin to see all kinds of leaders of various sects filling the vacuum because their traditional rulers have been taken away from what they are supposed to do and coordinate.

“It is not to give people traditional titles alone. Traditional rulers must be fully engaged to support our efforts.”