Former Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Chris Ngige, has outlined strategies to address the resurgence of insecurity in the state, advocating for a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to strengthen security.
Ngige shared his insights during the weekend as he received a High Chieftaincy title from the Nnewi community in recognition of his significant contributions to road construction during his 34-month tenure as governor.
The title, Otiwaluzo N’Nnewi (“Trailblazer in Road Construction”), was conferred by the Nnewi Monarch, Igwe Kenneth Onyeneke Orizu III, during the 2024 Ofala Cultural Festival held at his palace.
Ngige, who also served as Nigeria’s Minister of Labour and Employment (2015–2023) and Senator representing Anambra Central (2011–2015), expressed gratitude for the honor.
Ichie Otiwaluzo N’Nnewi connotes a Trailblazer in Road Construction,” Ngige said, recounting his achievements. “I built so many roads in Nnewi, including the Adazi-Nnewi-Ihembosi-Ozubulu-Okija road, which was previously impassable. My administration also addressed erosion challenges and constructed vital infrastructure such as the hanging bridge at Mmili Ele in Nnewi.”
Ngige emphasized the importance of combining resources and strategic approaches to combat insecurity effectively:
He called for increased funding for security agencies, including investments in equipment, communication gadgets, and other logistics.
Reflecting on his tenure as governor, Ngige highlighted the need for a balanced approach:
Kinetic Measures: Supporting law enforcement with necessary resources to address criminal activities directly.
Non-Kinetic Measures: Engaging youth through job creation and skill acquisition to deter them from criminal activities.
He shared, “We offered jobs to willing individuals, paying them N30,000 monthly—a significant amount at the time. For those unwilling to reform, we addressed them kinetically.”
Ngige underscored the importance of offering hope and opportunities to young people to counter the influence of non-state actors. “The government must compete with bad actors in recruiting and empowering young men,” he said.
Igwe Orizu praised Ngige for his transformative leadership and contributions to the development of Nnewi and Anambra State. “Ngige is an illustrious son of Anambra. His efforts in public service, especially in road construction, have left an indelible mark on Nnewi,” the monarch said.
Ngige concluded by reaffirming his commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance the welfare and security of Anambra State and its people.
©CDA News
