Sanwo-Olu, CDS to speak on peace, security in Qatar

Governor Babatunde Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, are expected to speak at the 18th edition of the Africa Security Watch Award and Conference scheduled for December 10 in Doha, Qatar.

The International Coordinator/Chief Executive Officer of Africa Security Watch, Patrick Agbambu, announced this at a briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.

Agbambu stated that Sanwo-Olu will speak on the conference theme, “Developing Modules for People-Centric Governance towards the Enhancement of Peace and Security,” focusing on the Lagos example.

“Meanwhile, General Musa will speak on the nexus between citizens’ socioeconomic development and national defence.”

He said the theme of the event was carefully chosen to “speak directly to the heart of the challenges we face and set the stage for actionable discussions that will help pave the way for a more peaceful and secure Africa.”

Agbambu added, “The foremost responsibility of any government or leadership is to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of its citizens. It is through responsive and people-centred governance that societies can thrive, where policies are crafted with the people in mind, ensuring peace, stability, and security for all.

“Sadly, our beloved continent of Africa continues to face significant challenges in this regard. Today, over 70% of Africa remains affected by various levels of insecurity. As a result, development stagnates, fear prevails, and too many of our citizens remain trapped in poverty.

“It is within this context that we at the Security Watch Africa Initiative have chosen the theme for the 18th Africa Security Watch Awards & Conference: ‘Developing Modules for People-Centric Governance towards the Enhancement of Peace and Security in Africa.’”

According to him, the conference was designed to deliver practical and insightful solutions to various security challenges in Africa, featuring distinguished keynote speakers, lead paper presenters, and panellists from across the continent and beyond.

“These esteemed individuals will address critical topics that are pivotal to shaping a secure future for Africa,” he said.

He continued, “At Security Watch Africa Initiatives, we believe that security encompasses everything that threatens human lives and valuables, and this is reflected in our award categories. From leadership and governance to the armed forces, police, medical professionals, the media, hospitality, transportation, and humanitarian services, we honour those who make our continent safer and better.”

A member of the Board of Trustees, Brig.-Gen. Kukasheka Usman (Rtd), stated that the choice of Qatar was in recognition of the country’s immense value on humanity, security, and quality of life for its people.

“We believe that participants will experience the best practices in that country and, through this experience, we can learn invaluable lessons that can be applied in Africa,” he said.