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LUKURAWA: another insurgency sponsored by foreign body to destabilize Nigeria
LUKURAWA: another insurgency sponsored by foreign body to destabilize Nigeria
By: Zagazola Makama
A militant group known as LAKURAWA, originally formed as a self-defense force for Fulani communities in Niger in 1997, has become a formidable and increasingly radicalized presence in Nigeria’s northwest. Reports indicate the group has been active in armed banditry, cattle rustling, and kidnappings in Sokoto and Kebbi states, raising fears about the spread of violent extremism in the region.
Initially established to protect Fulani herders from Tuareg attacks, the LAKURAWA shifted its stance in 2012, when a faction allied with al-Ansar al-Sharia, a group pushing for a Sharia state in Mali’s Azawad region. The alliance resulted in a splinter group that began to adopt extremist ideologies, operating outside legal frameworks and often clashing with local authorities.
Sources indicate that in 2018, local leaders in Nigeria’s Gudu and Illela areas discreetly invited the group to help curb rising bandit activity, bypassing government channels—a move that has since drawn controversy.
Shortly after the Niger’s President Mohamed Bazoum was ousted from power on July 26, 2023, as members of the presidential guard led a coup, reinstating military rule calling itself the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP), LUKURAWA group was allegedly contracted by a foreign country to destabilized the country to restore President Buzoum. Each of the Lukurawa top men were given dollars equivalent to N10million Naira with a motorcycle while those with wives were paid about N15 million each with motorcycles as insenstives for their recruitment. Sophisticated equipment was also supplied to the group.
Meanwhile, the group have been existing in Nigeria since 2018, hibernating around the villages of Kebbi, Sokoto and some part of Zamfara. The people of the regions were comfortable with them as the LUKURAWA’s provided protection to them against attacks by armed bandits. In many cases, they reportedly confront and expel bandits and confiscate their cattle’s in areas under their control.
The LUKURAWA employ a combination of financial incentives and ideological influence to gain support among vulnerable communities but things soon start to fall apart when the extremist groups begin to impost ideologies linked to the Khawarij sect, similar to the beliefs of Boko Haram.
A Shift to Extremism
The LAKURAWA, which includes a diverse ethnic makeup of Malians, Arabs, Tuaregs, and Fulani, is notable for their distinct attire, with members often sporting beards and turbans. Known to communicate in Arabic, Tuareg, Fulfulde, and Hausa, they have easily integrated across communities, facilitating their expansion across the northwest. Their extremist shift was part of the plan to form alliances with larger insurgent groups, like Bandits and Boko Haram fueling insecurity in Nigeria’s northwestern and north-central zones. Their complex history and cross-border connections make it a difficult threat to neutralize.
Zagazola noted also that the group’s alignment with local insurgent factions echoes the circumstances that gave rise to Boko Haram. “This is a group with deep historical roots and a willingness to adapt its tactics, making it a highly destabilizing force. It was previously reported by Zagazola how the terrorists operates a significant smuggling network from Kebbi State’s Dole-Kaina, a border town connecting Nigeria and Niger. Large quantities of fuel, ammunition, and other supplies are reportedly transported across Nigeria’s borders, with items reaching terror groups across the Sahel and West African regions. These supplies including funding base pass through Niger and, in some instances, Benin Republic to reach Kompienga, a province in eastern Burkina Faso, which is a known hotbed for terrorist activity. Nigerian is increasingly challenged by these routes used for arms trafficking in the North West, which allow bandits and terror groups to sustain their operations.
LUKURAWA’s mission in Nigeria
The nefarious activities of the dreaded terrorist in Nigeria which has made lives and properties insecure in Nigeria could be attributed to the exploitation of mineral resources, expansion of extremist ideologies or the guise of Islam, and targeted recruitment of youths into their folds. Though their mission in Nigeria was not to wage direct war with the people or Armed forces of Nigeria. LUKURAWA, just like other war merchants, they were deployed to the North West to for the purpose of exploitation of the various natural resources in the regions of Kebbi, Zamfara and Sokoto states under the guise of protecting the local community.
Therefore, the burgeoning migrant smuggling, war merchants, drug and human trafficking industries do not only undermine the sovereignty of our country but also weaken the public confidence in the integrity of government policy.
Way forward
To effectively contain the Lukurawa group, a strategic, multi-dimensional approach is necessary given their complex history and their alliances with local and transnational extremist groups. We must Strengthen Intelligence and Surveillance by Conducting rigorous intelligence operations focused on Lukurawa’s recruitment methods, supply chains, and movement patterns is essential. Enhanced surveillance both through human intelligence and technological resources like drones can help preemptively identify Lukurawa’s activities and deter attacks. Lukurawa connections with local communities need careful investigation.
Community leaders who may have unofficial ties with the group should be sensitized to the risks of such alliances. Educating these communities on the broader security threats posed by Lukurawa, and providing alternative support or protection, can reduce the group’s influence.
Cut Off Financial and Logistical Resources by Identifying and disrupting Lukurawa’s sources of funding and weapon supplies is crucial especially from Niger republic and their foreign backed country. This could involve working with neighboring countries, especially Niger, where the group was initially formed, to monitor and regulate arms trafficking and cross-border trade activities that benefit Lukurawa.
Deploy Targeted Military Action with Local Collaboration:
Authorities should consider well-planned, targeted military actions to dismantle Lukurawa’s bases, with the support of local forces knowledgeable about the terrain. Collaborating with regional partners and leveraging the experience of local Civilian Joint Task Forces (CJTF) can improve operational effectiveness. Engage in Regional Diplomatic Efforts since Lukurawa has international connections, Nigeria should work closely with Niger, Chad, and Mali to develop a unified security strategy against armed groups that operate across borders. A joint task force or intelligence-sharing network with these countries would strengthen regional containment efforts.
By combining intelligence, military action, community engagement, and regional cooperation, authorities can implement a sustained strategy to weaken and contain the Lukurawa group, thereby improving security in affected areas.
Zagazola Makama is a Counter Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst in the Lake Chad Region
LUKURAWA: another insurgency sponsored by foreign body to destabilize Nigeria
UNESCO Asks Philosophers to Provide Ethical Guidance for AI and Ensures it Beneficial to Man
By: Michael Mike
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has called on contemporary philosophers to provide ethical guidance that ensures that Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the transformations it provided are well-regulated and beneficial to human wellbeing.
The call was made on Thursday in Abuja
at the celebration of 2024 World Philosophy Day with the theme: “The Role of the Nigerian Government in Human Wellbeing in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.”
Speaking at the occasion, the Head of Abuja Office and UNESCO Representative to Nigeria, Abdourahamane Diallo, said the
expected responsibilities of—many of whom are present in this room—is to provide ethical guidance that ensures these transformations of AI are well-regulated and beneficial to human wellbeing.
He added that: “Today’s celebration also provides an opportunity to reflect on current global needs and how philosophers can leverage their expertise to create a moral compass for addressing these needs.“
He noted that UNESCO has consistently provided platforms for such critical reflections. Working with its 191 Member States and teams of philosophers, UNESCO has developed recommendations on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence to ensure that AI actors prioritize social justice, fairness, non-discrimination, and inclusion.
He said: “To complement these recommendations and facilitate their implementation, UNESCO also developed the Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) tool. This diagnostic tool helps countries assess their capacity to ensure an ethical and responsible AI ecosystem. It is my pleasure to inform you that Nigeria is among the few countries implementing this groundbreaking tool.”
Diallo said: “I hope that today’s conversations and brainstorming sessions, guided by the event’s theme, will provide in-depth insights into how AI can be regulated in Nigeria to secure human wellbeing, particularly by addressing the ethical considerations necessary for policy ideas emanating from the RAM implementation.”
On her part, the Acting Vice Chancellor of University of Abuja, Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi said: “Artificial intelligence represents a formidable force that is reshaping every facet of our lives—from how we work and learn, to how we receive healthcare and communicate with each other. As AI algorithms permeate industries and begin to make decisions traditionally reserved for humans, it is essential to ask: What does this mean for human well-being, particularly in Nigeria? How can our government harness the potential of AI in a way that aligns with our society’s core values, addresses our unique challenges, and supports our collective vision for human flourishing?”
She noted that: “The philosopher Aristotle taught us that true well-being, or “eudaimonia,” transcends mere survival; it entails leading a life of purpose, dignity, and fulfillment. In the age of AI, this classical ideal faces new obstacles and complexities. The Nigerian government, like those of other nations, is tasked with balancing the promises of AI advancements with the protection of citizens’ rights, well-being, and socioeconomic stability.”
The VC who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor – Administration, Prof. Philip Afaha, said the challenges and responsibilities of government include policy and ethical governance of AI, education and digital literacy, healthcare and social welfare , data sovereignty and privacy protection, addressing economic inequality and job displacement and upholding human-centered values.
She added that: “As we navigate the complexities of the AI age, let us remember that technology should not drive humanity; rather, humanity should guide technology. The Nigerian government, as a steward of human well-being, must be visionary, ethical, and resolute in promoting a future where AI serves to uplift all citizens, support equitable development, and foster a society in which every Nigerian can achieve their highest potential.
“In this endeavor, we must be both vigilant and hopeful, embracing AI as a tool for good while upholding the moral responsibility to protect our citizens’ dignity and well-being. This is a profound opportunity to shape a future that reflects the best of human values, creativity, and compassion.”
UNESCO Asks Philosophers to Provide Ethical Guidance for AI and Ensures it Beneficial to Man
KACRAN Asks Northern Governors to Drop the Idea of Establishing State Police
By: Michael Mike
The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has called on governors of states in the north not to consider the agitation for the establishment of state police in the country especially in the north.
The association in a statement by its National President, Khalil Bello said should state police be established in the north, it would not solve the challenges of insecurity but rather add other challenges.
The statement read: “Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) wishes to express its deep concerns and firm opposition to the proposed establishment of State Police in Northern Nigeria. This proposal has significant implications that could impact financial stability, administrative efficiency, and social harmony in the region.”
The association added that key concerns over the establishment of state police include financial burden, insisting that establishing a State Police force entails a substantial financial commitment. “For example, a state with 15 local governments could require approximately 10 billion Naira for initial setup costs, including recruitment, training, equipment, and infrastructure development. In larger states like Kano, these expenses could rise to about 30 billion Naira. Additionally, maintaining such a force would demand around 3 billion Naira monthly for salaries and operational costs. These expenditures could divert critical resources from essential public services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure, which are vital for the development and well-being of the region.”
Bello, added in the statement that there is concern over job security and crime rates, noting there lis a significant concern regarding the job security of newly recruited officers. If budget constraints or administrative changes lead to job losses, these trained individuals might resort to criminal activities, potentially increasing crime rates within communities. Ensuring stable employment for these officers is crucial to maintaining peace and security.
He added that the impact on state police on national police is another concern as the creation of State Police could weaken the existing Nigeria Police Force (NPF) by drawing away experienced officers. “This shift could compromise the effectiveness of national policing efforts, leading to reduced coordination and communication between state and federal law enforcement agencies.”
He further raised the alarm that state police may be opened to political abuse, insisting that: “The potential for political misuse of State Police is a major concern. There is a risk that these forces could be used to serve the interests of local political leaders rather than the broader public, leading to the victimization of opposition parties and creating an environment of lawlessness and anarchy. Such a scenario could undermine the rule of law and erode public trust in law enforcement.”
Bello said KACRAN have the following questions for proponents of State Police in Northern Nigeria, where the issue or ₦70,000 minimum wage is still being debated:
“Where will the funding for State Police come from? Will it be a permanent special grant from the Federal Government? If so, what happens if that funding is discontinued?
“In the event of a budget deficit, what will happen to conventional civil servants and retirees?
“Looking ahead 37 years, what will be the impact on the North if State Police are established and then retire or resign? Some states in the Northeast already have over 15,000 retirees, exceeding their active workforce.
“Why do State Governments prefer relying on force to address security issues instead of investing in social services and creating an enabling environment for businesses to empower our youth?”
KACRAN Asks Northern Governors to Drop the Idea of Establishing State Police
Nigerian Groups in Americas Resolve Dispute, Unite
By: Michael Mike
The warring charters of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization Americas have resolved their dispute and agreed to unite for a common goal.
A statement jointly signed by the parties and e-mailed to ThisDay on Thursday, said NIDOA’s historic unification took place during an extraordinary Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on November 16 in Bloomington, Minnesota, United States.
The statement read: “In a groundbreaking move, the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation Americas (NIDOA) has united under one cohesive umbrella, marking a historic milestone in the organisation’s journey.”
In the statement signed by Bukoka Olaoye and Zee Nagberi (Board of Trustee member; Chika Emmanuel, Brazil; Lillian Alli-Balogun, Canada; Doyin Owobamirin and Collins Ikegwuonu, USA; the members described the unification as a significant achievement to push the progress of the organisation.
During the unification meeting with the theme, “NIDOA: Building A Strong & United Nigerian Diaspora Community,” a peace deal was sealed, bringing all chapters into a single, cohesive body, the statement disclosed.
“After months of dialogue and collaboration, representatives from NIDOA’s chapters across the Americas— including over 20 USA chapter presidents, continental chairs from Canada and Brazil, and past leaders—came together to resolve long-standing divisions within the organization,” it said.
It identified an international mediation expert as key to the success of the November 16 reconciliation.
The unification agreement was formally signed by leaders from both sides, including Mr Zee Nagberi, Mr Bukola Olaoye, Dr. Toni Ogbanufe, Mr Uche Uzoigwe, Mrs. Chinyere Ibezim-Adom, Pastor Doyin Owobamirin, and Mr. Collins Ikegwuonu, the statement explained.
Nigerian Groups in Americas Resolve Dispute, Unite
UNESCO Asks Philosophers to Provide Ethical Guidance for AI and Ensures it Beneficial to Man
KACRAN Asks Northern Governors to Drop the Idea of Establishing State Police
Nigerian Groups in Americas Resolve Dispute, Unite
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