Insecurity: Sultan of Sokoto advocates preservation of Nigeria’s natural resources

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called for the preservation of Nigeria’s natural resources as a means to foster security and stability across the nation.

The Sultan made this appeal during the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) 2024 fourth quarterly meeting held on Tuesday in Abuja.

Speaking on the theme, “Our Natural Resources and Insecurity in Nigeria,” he lamented that despite the country’s abundant human and natural resources, insecurity continues to pose significant challenges.

He highlighted that Nigeria’s vast natural wealth, instead of being a blessing, has often become a source of conflict and insecurity due to poor management and exploitation.

However, Alhaji Abubakar III urged Nigerians to adopt a positive attitude, emphasizing that such a change would enhance peace and unity in the country.

Acknowledging the hardships faced by many, the Sultan encouraged patience and optimism, stating, “We know the pain everybody is going through. It is not easy, but Almighty Allah will make things better. No matter the hardship, ease will come eventually. Let’s keep praying and believing that Allah, who brought us into this world, will never allow us to suffer unnecessarily.”

He further advised Nigerians to assist the less privileged.

According to him, “No matter what you own, mansions, luxury cars, or wealth, it doesn’t belong to you permanently. Use your resources wisely and for the benefit of others because when you meet your maker, only your good deeds will count. Let us be our brothers’ keepers and help one another, especially those in need around us.”

The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), His Eminence Archbishop Daniel Okoh, echoed the Sultan’s concerns.

He stated that, “Nigeria is blessed with abundant natural resources, oil, gas, solid minerals, and arable land that have the potential to drive national development, create jobs, and alleviate poverty. Unfortunately, these resources have frequently fueled conflicts and insecurity, devastating communities and eroding trust among citizens.”

Archbishop Okoh called on religious leaders to use their platforms to advocate for equitable resource distribution and to condemn corruption and impunity.

“Our faiths teach stewardship, justice, and compassion. Religious leaders must champion transparency and accountability, which are essential to addressing the plagues of insecurity and resource mismanagement,” he said.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, emphasized the importance of implementing effective policies to address issues such as oil bunkering and resource-related violence.

Senator Akume said, “Strengthening institutions and governance, improving transparency, and enforcing proactive penalties for illegal activities will help deter corruption and resource-related crimes. Community-focused policies that involve local stakeholders in resource management and profit-sharing can build trust and discourage illegal activities.”

He also called for consistency in resource management policies across successive administrations to ensure sustainable development and security.