By Idris Umar Zaria A Professor of Local Government and Development Studies at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Professor K...
A Professor of Local Government and Development Studies at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Professor Kabir Isa, has unveiled a new analytical framework that explains the interconnected relationship between governance failure, non-state violence, and Nigeria's persistent development challenges.
The framework, titled "Triple Helix: Governance, Non-State Violence and Development in Nigeria," was presented during his inaugural lecture at the Yusuf Bala Usman Auditorium, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
In the lecture, Professor Isa introduced the Triple Helix Framework, which posits that weak governance structures, the activities of non-state armed groups, and underdevelopment are mutually reinforcing and should be addressed through an integrated policy approach.
Drawing on a 30-year study conducted between 1994 and 2025 across eight states in Northern Nigeria, Professor Isa explained that the research utilised structured interviews, focus group discussions, and conflict data analysis to examine the causes and consequences of insecurity and underdevelopment.
According to the study, major security challenges confronting Nigeria—including banditry, the Boko Haram insurgency, farmer-herder conflicts, and the emergence of armed vigilante groups—share a common underlying cause: governance failure, particularly at the local government level.
He noted that weak local governance has contributed to poor public service delivery, eroded public confidence in state institutions, and created conditions that enable criminal and violent groups to thrive.
The research also established a strong correlation between local government autonomy and effective service delivery, stressing that accountable and empowered local government institutions are critical to tackling insecurity and fostering sustainable development.
Professor Isa further highlighted the broader consequences of governance failure, including the expansion of armed criminal networks, the displacement of millions of people, and Nigeria's slow progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
As part of his recommendations, he called for comprehensive reforms to strengthen local government institutions and introduced the concept of Competitive Governance as a framework for policy analysis, institutional reform, and improved public sector performance.
In his concluding remarks, Professor Isa argued that rebuilding governance systems, particularly at the grassroots level, is fundamental to reducing violence, restoring public confidence in government institutions, and laying the foundation for sustainable national development.
He expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah, his parents, mentors, colleagues, students, and everyone who supported his academic journey. He also appreciated Ahmadu Bello University for providing an enabling environment for research and scholarship.
The Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Professor Adamu Ahmed, commended the quality, relevance, and significance of the inaugural lecture, describing it as an important contribution to national and global discourse on governance, security, and development.
He also appreciated members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), guests, staff, students, and other stakeholders for their contributions to the success of the event and wished participants a safe journey back to their respective destinations.
.jpg)
No comments