By Prof. M. K. Othman
As a citizen with only one nationality, Nigerian, I have accepted the idiom that peace and security are the fundamental pillars upon which other societal developments are built. Security brings peace, harmony, and love, and enables people to be productive, efficient, and effective in their daily lives. Security is expensive; it requires heavy investment in finance, human resources, and infrastructure, but it is still cheaper than insecurity. Insecurity is so expensive that you may be lucky to end up with your life or on a hospital bed. That is why when you are unfortunate to face the arduous task of choosing between your money or your life, you would soon realize you have but only one choice- your life and are ready to surrender any worldly materials.
“Your money or your life” criminals are the old-time armed robbers, “beautiful” saints to today’s bandits, whose violent antics have only one remedy – survival by the special grace of the Almighty God. Once one is unfortunate enough to be in their custody, only God’s grace guarantees survival, as they are callous, crude, and merciless, without a thought for God’s fear or human kindness. National and religious laws do not exist in their world, as they are propelled by material acquisition and illicit drug use that sever their consciousness and humanity. May the Almighty bring an end to this calamitous trend of insecurity in Nigeria and beyond. Amen.
My 3-part weekly article, totalling 4,231 words and published over three consecutive weeks in July 2026, drew responses from my esteemed readers, and I am sharing edited versions of selected comments for your reading pleasure.
Dear Prof. Othman, your article is a bold step in the right direction. Security has crippled farming, education, and businesses across the region. The commitment of ₦1bn per month from each state demonstrates seriousness. If the ₦1bn monthly fund is managed transparently and with accountability, it can help restore peace and give Northern communities their lives back. Aisha Dahiru
Well done, Prof. MK Othman, on the long essay. It is well written, thoughtful, and offers undeniable insights. The money is not the problem; there is apparently a lack of political will to do what is necessary to tackle the problem at its root causes. There is a disconnect between the populace and the leadership in the North. There is a deep lack of leadership integrity. Governance failure is glaring; this has exacerbated poverty, which has heightened violent conflicts and banditry. This has led to a collapse of development. We hope the money contributed will be judiciously utilized. Thanks a lot for the article. Prof Rabiu Adamu
Thank you, Sir, for elaborating on your opinion regarding the security trust fund for the northern states. This article is timely and captures the opinions of many of us living in the north.
This article raises a key concern. I am glad it draws attention to the relevant stakeholders and highlights that what matters to Northern communities is not the announced ₦1bn contribution but real improvements on the ground: secure farming, safe highways, and open schools. Equipment is useful, but sustainable governance is decisive. The success of this Fund should be assessed by its impact in frontline states such as Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto, as well as in states in the Northeast and Northcentral, rather than by meetings held in Abuja. Once again, thank you, Sir. Dr Umar Hassan
Thank you so much, Sir, for the well-written article on the Northern Security Trust Fund. To be honest, this is the reality on the ground. Northern Nigeria has an abundance of resources, creating more opportunities for all Northerners, yet their potential remains untapped.
Also, the Trust Fund and the Fund’s Managers may not change anything, but credible leadership and good governance are the best solutions to Northern Nigeria’s insecurity. Thank you so much, Sir, for your enlightenment campaign, and may God reward you for your tireless efforts. Lawan Abdulmumini Karkarna
Dear Prof. Othman, I sincerely appreciate your sharing your insightful newspaper article on the Northern Security Trust Fund. Your contribution reflects deep intellectual engagement, patriotism, and a strong commitment to addressing issues that affect the progress and stability of our society.
Indeed, there are only a few Professors in Nigeria who consistently use their expertise and academic standing to contribute meaningfully to national discourse beyond the university walls. Your ability to provide informed perspectives on critical issues is highly commendable and inspiring.
May Almighty Allah continue to bless you with wisdom, good health, and the opportunity to make even greater contributions to the development of our nation. With great respect and appreciation. Dr Bashir M. Bawuro
More ink to your pen, Baba Prof. Othman. May Allah continue to bless you and your family for the good work and contributions you make to the University community and the nation at large. Good morning, my Prof. Have a blessed weekend, Sir. Abdulkadir Kurfi
Dear Prof. M. K. Othman, thank you, Sir, for taking the time to write such a thoughtful and insightful article despite your demanding responsibilities as the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Dutsin-Ma. It is encouraging to see a leader in your position remain committed to offering ideas that address the challenges facing our region and our nation.
Your emphasis on transparency, good governance, and the need to address insecurity alongside development is both timely and inspiring. May Allah continue to bless you with wisdom, good health, and the strength to keep serving humanity through your leadership and scholarship. Thank you for this valuable contribution. Dr Aliyu Dalha Kankia
