Routewatche: Nigeria's Borno & Katsina States at highest insecurity risk

Data from Routewatche has identified Borno and Katsina States in Nigeria as facing the highest risk of insecurity. The June Security Risk Index reported a total of 277 incidents resulting in 680 fatalities in a single month, pushing the country's security index to 22.6 points. Adebayo Adeleke, the Founder of Routewatche, recently appeared on CNBC Africa to delve into the findings of the report and assess the exposure of everyday Nigerians to security threats. During the interview, Adeleke highlighted the significance of the first-ever Nigerian security index. He emphasized the need to move beyond simply analyzing raw numbers at a national level and instead focus on the security postures of different sub-national regions. Adeleke pointed out that while a small percentage of Nigerians are exposed to terrorism and fatalities, the majority of the population is not, underscoring the importance of assessing security on a more localized level. Adeleke specifically mentioned that states such as Cross River, Jigawa, and various southern and southwestern states have witnessed significant improvements in their security postures. He commended Jigawa for its efforts in securing its borders and enhancing its overall security measures. By highlighting these success stories, Adeleke emphasized the importance of recognizing and applauding states that have effectively addressed security challenges. The conversation then shifted towards the utilization of data visualization, artificial intelligence (AI), and predictive analytics to anticipate potential security threats. Adeleke explained the intricate connection between security issues and other external factors, such as climatic conditions like flooding. He stressed the need for collaboration between the government and businesses to leverage these technologies for early warning systems and predictive crime analysis. In addressing multifaceted security challenges, Adeleke introduced the concept of non-kinetic actors and elements to tackle societal and anthropological issues that contribute to insecurity. By incorporating a holistic approach that considers various dimensions of security threats, Adeleke highlighted the importance of utilizing all available resources to mitigate risks and preempt attacks. As Nigeria continues to grapple with security concerns, reports like those from Routewatche provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of threats and vulnerabilities. By shedding light on specific states at high risk, such as Borno and Katsina, and showcasing advancements in security measures in other regions, stakeholders are empowered to tailor interventions and responses to address localized security challenges effectively.