Hon. Seedy S.K. Njie, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of The Gambia and Chairman of its Defence and Security Committee, has called for a unified approach to tackle the growing insecurity across the African continent.
Speaking in Abuja at the official opening ceremony for Chairpersons of Defence and Security Committees in West Africa, Njie emphasised the urgent need for collective action by Africa’s armed and security forces to address the worsening state of security in the region.
He highlighted the widespread effects of violence, armed robbery, terrorism, insurgencies, and banditry that continue to destabilise Sub-Saharan Africa. Njie stressed the critical role of national security forces in defending territorial integrity and sovereignty, while urging legislators and leaders to renew their commitment to protecting citizens and upholding internal security.
He specifically called on security forces to make the protection of lives and property a priority.
Njie further advocated for a collaborative and continental response to security threats, describing peace as a prerequisite for Africa’s socio-economic development and the well-being of its people.
He concluded by urging African lawmakers to give defence and security matters greater prominence, and to ensure adequate budgetary allocations are made to confront the continent’s escalating security challenges.
