Civic Talks 2.0: From Fear to Safety — Rethinking Security and Civic Responsibility in Nigeria

Across Nigeria, insecurity has become more than a policy challenge. It is now a lived reality affecting how people move, work, learn, invest, worship, and relate with one another.

From communities displaced by violence in Benue and Plateau to growing concerns around kidnappings, banditry, communal conflict, and civic distrust, security has become one of the defining issues of our time.

Yet amid the headlines, statistics, and political debates, one question remains:

What role do citizens play in building a safer Nigeria?

This question sits at the heart of Civic Talks 2.0, a public dialogue convened by the Centre for Inclusive Social Development (CISD).

Under the theme: From Fear to Safety: Rethinking Security and Civic Responsibility in Nigeria

Civic Talks 2.0 brings together policymakers, security professionals, academics, community leaders, technology innovators, development practitioners, young people, and citizens to examine the evolving security landscape and explore practical pathways towards safer and more resilient communities.

This is not another talk shop.

It is a deliberate effort to move beyond outrage and headlines towards deeper understanding, civic reflection, and meaningful action.

Why Civic Talks 2.0 Matters

Security is often discussed as the sole responsibility of government and security agencies.

While state institutions play a critical role, lasting security also depends on active citizenship, accountable governance, community resilience, social trust, and informed public participation.

Civic Talks 2.0 seeks to bridge the gap between policy discussions and lived experiences by creating a space where diverse voices can engage honestly about:

The goal is simple:

To move the conversation from fear towards solutions.

A Data-Informed Conversation

Ahead of the event, CISD conducted an extensive review of security trends across Nigeria and engaged directly with affected communities.

The findings reveal a troubling reality:

Beyond the numbers are real people, families, and communities navigating the consequences of insecurity every day.

Civic Talks 2.0 seeks to ensure that these realities remain at the centre of the conversation.

Meet the Speakers

Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT)

As one of Nigeria's senior law enforcement leaders, CP Sanusi brings practical insights into contemporary security challenges, policing, public safety, and citizen engagement.

Security Expert and Former Nigerian Air Force Officer

With extensive experience in national security and strategic operations, Wing Commander Ukanwa will provide perspectives on evolving threats and practical approaches to strengthening national resilience.

Professor of Criminology, Lagos State University

A respected scholar and researcher, Professor Oyenuga's work spans criminology, cybercrime, investigations, criminal justice, and public safety.

His expertise offers important insights into understanding crime and designing effective responses.

Founder and CEO, Yawa Technologies

Ternenge represents the growing role of technology and innovation in solving public problems.

His contributions will explore how data, digital tools, and civic technology can support safer communities and strengthen accountability.

Youth Coordinator, Plateau Progressive Youth Network Foundation

Working directly with communities affected by insecurity, Nuhu brings important grassroots perspectives on resilience, youth engagement, and community response.

ECWA Church Ri-Zhi Ngbra Zong, Bassa LGA, Plateau State

Pastor Moses offers a powerful voice from communities directly impacted by violence and displacement, helping ground the conversation in lived realities.

Conflict & Humanitarian Reporter

Behind every security statistic is a human story. Join Yakubu Mohammed, Conflict & Humanitarian Reporter at PREMIUM TIMES, as he brings frontline perspectives to CivicTalks.

What Participants Can Expect

Participants will gain:

A clearer understanding of the security challenges facing Nigeria and the factors driving them.

Insights from security professionals, academics, community leaders, civic actors, and innovators.

Honest discussions focused not only on identifying problems but also on exploring solutions.

A renewed appreciation for the role citizens can play in building safer and more accountable societies.

An opportunity to engage with policymakers, practitioners, researchers, development actors, and fellow citizens committed to positive change.

Event Details:

About Civic Talks

Civic Talks is a public dialogue platform created by the Centre for Inclusive Social Development (CISD) to foster informed conversations on issues shaping governance, citizenship, accountability, development, and national progress.

The platform brings together diverse voices to engage difficult questions, challenge assumptions, and promote solutions-oriented dialogue.

Because stronger societies are built through informed citizens, accountable institutions, and meaningful conversations.

Join the Conversation

The room may be full, but the conversation is not.

Register to attend virtually and become part of a national dialogue on security, citizenship, and the future of Nigeria.

Register Here:
https://cisdnigeria.org/civic-talks/register/

Security is not only about the state. It is also about all of us.