North-East economy at risk as CSO urges civilians to back anti-terror efforts

 

Concern is mounting over the economic toll of insurgency in Nigeria’s North-East, as a civil society organisation has warned that continued public passivity could worsen both security and livelihood conditions in the region.

The Peace, Security Focus Group, a North-East-based organisation, made the observation while calling on residents of Borno and Yobe States to play a more active role in addressing terrorism within their communities.

At a community forum held in Maiduguri on Thursday, the Convener of the Group, Ismail Mohammed, stressed that the persistence of insurgency is closely tied to the ability of terrorist elements to blend into local populations.

“For too long, some insurgents have hidden among us, carrying out attacks while ordinary citizens suffer. This is a fight we cannot leave solely to the military. You—the residents—must take ownership to reclaim our towns, markets, and livelihoods,” he said.

The organisation noted that while military operations remain critical, community collaboration is essential to achieving lasting results, urging residents to support the Armed Forces of Nigeria under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede.

“The military is working tirelessly to protect us, but they cannot succeed without our cooperation. By providing timely information, assisting in community vigilance, and collaborating with security initiatives, we can help them dismantle insurgents hiding in our midst,”he said.

Highlighting the broader implications, Mohammed warned that the insurgency is already disrupting key economic activities across the region, affecting agriculture, trade, and youth opportunities.

“Every attack disrupts trade, agriculture, and small businesses. Farmers cannot harvest, traders cannot sell, and young people cannot access opportunities. Our economy—the backbone of North-East recovery—is at stake. If we do not act together, the cost will only grow.”

The group further encouraged residents to strengthen local vigilance by reporting suspicious activities and supporting community-based security efforts.

“Your information saves lives. Silence only empowers the enemy. By standing together with our soldiers, we secure not just our safety but the future of our communities,”he stressed.

Reinforcing the urgency of collective responsibility, Mohammed concluded with a call for unity in safeguarding both lives and economic prospects in the region.

“This is our home, our children, our businesses, and our future. We cannot leave this fight to others. Support the Armed Forces under Gen. Oluyede, share information, and refuse to give insurgents a foothold. Together, we will protect our economy and secure a safer, more prosperous Borno for generations to come.”